Sunny Regions Reflect Lower ADHD Rates: Study
Sunny Regions Reflect Lower ADHD Rates: Study
Researchers wonder whether sunlight protects children, adults from distracted behavior
Melatonin seems to be especially disrupted by the blue wavelengths of visible light, Arns said. Energy-saving LED light bulbs, as well as the screens of tablets, smartphones and computers emit blue light. When people use those devices in the evening, it can delay melatonin release and disrupt sleep.
But Arns said people who live in sunny climates may get some natural protection from this sleep upset because they get a healthy dose of bright light in the morning, which keeps their body clocks on track.
He's currently exploring ways to test his theory.
An expert who was not involved in the study, which was published in the Oct. 15 issue of the journal Biological Psychiatry, said he's not sure melatonin is the best explanation.
Children in sunny climates may spend more time playing outside, for example, said Dr. Andrew Adesman, chief of developmental and behavioral pediatrics at the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center in New Hyde Park, N.Y.
"There's a small but growing literature talking about exercise as a way to moderate ADHD and hyperactivity," Adesman said. "There could be other variables that are responsible."
Sunny Regions Reflect Lower ADHD Rates: Study
Researchers wonder whether sunlight protects children, adults from distracted behavior
Melatonin seems to be especially disrupted by the blue wavelengths of visible light, Arns said. Energy-saving LED light bulbs, as well as the screens of tablets, smartphones and computers emit blue light. When people use those devices in the evening, it can delay melatonin release and disrupt sleep.
But Arns said people who live in sunny climates may get some natural protection from this sleep upset because they get a healthy dose of bright light in the morning, which keeps their body clocks on track.
He's currently exploring ways to test his theory.
An expert who was not involved in the study, which was published in the Oct. 15 issue of the journal Biological Psychiatry, said he's not sure melatonin is the best explanation.
Children in sunny climates may spend more time playing outside, for example, said Dr. Andrew Adesman, chief of developmental and behavioral pediatrics at the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center in New Hyde Park, N.Y.
"There's a small but growing literature talking about exercise as a way to moderate ADHD and hyperactivity," Adesman said. "There could be other variables that are responsible."
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