118: Ken Ceder - Nutritional Light Technology & Seasonal Affective Disorder (replay Ep. 49)

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"Light is a nutrient the same as food," says Ken Ceder, who joins the Quantum Biology Collective podcast to illuminate the silent epidemic of mal-illumination and its profound impact on our health. With over 30 years of experience in developing healthy light products, Ceder explains how our modern indoor lifestyles have disconnected us from the vital benefits of natural sunlight, leading to a host of health issues.

In this eye-opening episode, Ceder reveals the surprising truth about common lighting options and their potential harm to our eyes and overall well-being. He discusses the groundbreaking work of John Ott, a pioneer in photobiology, and how it led to the development of full-spectrum lighting. Ceder also introduces the concept of "nutritional light technology" and explains why near-infrared light is crucial for cellular health and countering the negative effects of blue light from screens.

Tune in to discover why morning sunlight is essential for setting your circadian rhythm, how proper lighting can impact everything from mood to metabolism, and why investing in quality light might be more important for your health than your vitamin regimen. Learn about the innovative Soul Shine light products and how they aim to bring the benefits of natural sunlight indoors, potentially transforming your health and well-being.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Get morning sunlight daily. Spend 10-15 minutes outside in natural light first thing in the morning to set your circadian rhythm and boost metabolism. This simple habit can transform your health.

2. Be mindful of artificial lighting. Most indoor lighting, especially fluorescent and LED bulbs, lacks the full spectrum of natural light and may have harmful effects. Consider using full spectrum bulbs with near-infrared light.

3. Take frequent light breaks. If working indoors, step outside or by a window for 5 minutes each hour to give your eyes and body exposure to natural light. This can counteract the negative effects of artificial lighting.

4. Use caution with SAD light boxes. Many lack near-infrared light, which is crucial for eye health. Research products carefully and look for options that include near-infrared wavelengths.

5. View light as nutrition. Just as you're mindful of food quality, pay attention to your "light diet." Quality light is essential for properly metabolizing nutrients and vitamins from food.

Memorable Quotes

"Light regulates everything. Your time clock is set by that light regulating your circadian rhythms. You have basically little time clocks in almost every cell of your body. If you're out of rhythm, you can relate to what jet lag is. Well, most people are wandering around unwittingly on some form of jet lag and don't have a clue. It's because they're out of rhythm with nature."

"If you were standing naked in the noon day sun, 98% of the sunlight's energy enters through your eye, goes directly to your brain, and regulates everything from circadian rhythm to mood to sleep to appetite. Just 2% enters your body through your skin, the largest organ of your body."

"Metabolism is 100% dependent on light. Light in the morning ignites your metabolism. It's free, it's right there in front of your face. It comes up every single morning from the beginningless beginning. That sunshine shows up even on a cloudy day, it's worth getting outdoors."

Connect with Ken

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-ceder-03866b10/

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