Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite

Things have been so hectic recently between the sociopolitical, international, and entertainment news that it has been hard to focus on the little things. For example, did you realize we've had our first day of spring? That's right - it was March 20, 2022. You know what that means? Warmer temperatures and bugs! Don't let those bed bugs bite.

Well really, don't leave the light on. In a study published earlier this month it was discovered that having a night light can have negative impacts on your body. You may be thinking, are you sure? I sleep pretty soundly and I'm even getting a good time for REM sleep. That's where you would be wrong. According to the study, even a small amount of ambient light from your TV, light from outside, or even light from your phone would be negatively impacting your health.

How did they come to this conclusion? Researchers at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine monitored patients who slept in moderately lit rooms (100 lux, which would be similar to leaving your TV on while you sleep) and dimly lit rooms (3 lux, which would be similar to natural light from the full moon coming in through your window assuming no other light sources) over the course of one night and assessed how their bodies responded. The participants who slept in rooms with a moderate amount of light had signs that their sympathetic nervous system (works during the day and helps regulate the body's response to stress) was active instead of their parasympathetic nervous system (active at night and helps the body rest and digest).

What helped them come to this conclusion? The participants in the rooms with more light had elevated heart rates and the next morning their bodies showed signs of insulin resistance (which is exactly what it sounds like - the body is not able to process insulin properly). What does this mean over time? Well, potentially if constant, these conditions would lead to higher blood sugar levels and even diabetes.

Speaking of high blood sugar, have you noticed that mosquitoes come after you more than the people around you? It could have something to do with your blood sugar levels. While male mosquitoes aren't blood suckers, females have been observed to consume fluids rich in dissolved sugars such as nectar. If your blood sugar is too high, to a female mosquito you're a two for one deal, unfortunately. What do the females need blood for anyway? Reproduction. Blood plays a large role in the female mosquito's ability to produce eggs. If you're looking for a non-DEET or more natural mosquito repellent, eucalyptus oil has been proven to work as a natural mosquito repellent. Of course, if you are wanting to maximize protection DEET with citronella (which is also a natural insect repellent) may be the way to go.