The Health Benefits of Incandescent Bulbs

The ban on incandescent light bulbs has been a subject of much debate in recent years. Many countries have implemented or are considering such bans, mainly due to concerns over energy consumption and environmental impact. However, incandescent bulbs might actually have significant benefits for human health, which are often overlooked in the debate. 

This article will explore the health benefits of incandescent light bulbs and the implications of the ban for public health. The discussion will be guided by relevant sources and research, ensuring a solid foundation for the arguments presented.

Ban on Incandescent Light Bulbs

The ban on incandescent light bulbs has been driven by concerns over their energy inefficiency and impact on the environment. According to The Hill, the US Department of Energy has announced plans to ban the sale of certain types of incandescent and halogen light bulbs due to their energy inefficiency.^[1] This ban is part of a broader global trend, with many countries moving toward more energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED and CFL bulbs.^[1]

The primary reason behind the shift away from incandescent bulbs is their low energy efficiency compared to alternatives like LED and CFL bulbs. Incandescent bulbs convert only about 10% of the energy they consume into light, while the remaining 90% is released as heat.^[1] In contrast, LED and CFL bulbs are much more efficient, converting a higher percentage of energy into light and using less power overall.

Another major factor driving the ban is the environmental impact of incandescent bulbs. The excessive energy consumption associated with incandescent bulbs contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.^[1] Moreover, the relatively short lifespan of incandescent bulbs leads to more frequent replacements, generating additional waste.

Considering these factors, the ban on incandescent light bulbs is a step toward reducing energy consumption and mitigating environmental harm. However, it's important to examine the potential health benefits of incandescent bulbs, which are often overlooked in the discussion.

Incandescent Bulbs and Human Health

Despite the environmental drawbacks, incandescent light bulbs may have a number of benefits for human health that are often overlooked. According to Health Lighting, incandescent and halogen bulbs are actually the best light sources for human health because they emit a natural, full spectrum of light that closely resembles sunlight.^[2] This natural light spectrum is crucial for various aspects of human health, including mood, sleep, and visual comfort.

Sunlight is essential for human health and well-being, as it influences various physiological processes. The full spectrum of light emitted by the sun includes visible light, as well as ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light. Incandescent bulbs closely mimic this full spectrum, providing a light source that is more compatible with our biological needs.^[2]

One of the key benefits of the natural light spectrum provided by incandescent bulbs is its impact on our circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms are the body's internal clock, regulating various physiological processes, such as sleep, hormone release, and body temperature. Exposure to the full spectrum of natural light, especially in the morning, helps to synchronize our circadian rhythms with the environment.^[2]

In contrast, LED and CFL bulbs often produce a more limited spectrum of light, which may not have the same health benefits as the natural light spectrum emitted by incandescent bulbs. For instance, LED and CFL bulbs tend to emit a higher percentage of blue light, which has been associated with sleep disruptions and other health issues.^[2]

Moreover, incandescent bulbs also produce a small amount of infrared (IR) light, which has been shown to have therapeutic effects. IR light can help to promote relaxation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.^[2] While the amount of IR light emitted by incandescent bulbs is relatively low, it may still contribute to the overall health benefits of these light sources.

Considering the potential health benefits of the natural light spectrum provided by incandescent bulbs, it is crucial to weigh these advantages against the environmental concerns associated with their use.

Mood Enhancement

Natural light has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and overall mental health. Incandescent light bulbs, with their full spectrum of light, can help to mimic the effects of natural sunlight, thereby supporting mood regulation and reducing the risk of depression.^[3] A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that exposure to bright light, similar to the natural light spectrum emitted by incandescent bulbs, significantly improved mood and reduced depressive symptoms in individuals with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).^[3]

In contrast, LED and CFL bulbs often produce a more limited spectrum of light, which may not have the same mood-enhancing effects. Research suggests that exposure to artificial light sources with a limited spectrum, such as LED and CFL bulbs, can negatively affect mood and increase the risk of developing mood disorders.^[3] Therefore, the use of incandescent bulbs could potentially contribute to better mental health and well-being.

Sleep Regulation 

Exposure to natural light, particularly in the morning, is essential for the regulation of our circadian rhythms and sleep patterns. Incandescent bulbs, which emit a spectrum of light similar to sunlight, can help to support healthy sleep patterns by promoting the release of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.^[4] A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that exposure to natural light, or light sources that mimic the natural light spectrum, during the day can improve sleep quality and duration in adults.^[4]

LED and CFL bulbs, on the other hand, often emit a higher percentage of blue light, which has been linked to sleep disruptions and a range of other health issues.^[4] Research conducted by the Harvard Medical School suggests that exposure to blue light in the evening can suppress melatonin production, leading to delayed sleep onset and reduced sleep duration.^[4] Thus, the use of incandescent bulbs may contribute to better sleep regulation and overall health.

Visual Comfort

Incandescent bulbs provide a gentler, full spectrum of light, which can be more visually comfortable compared to the light emitted by LED and CFL bulbs. The natural light spectrum produced by incandescent bulbs closely resembles sunlight, providing a more comfortable and visually soothing environment.^[5] This is particularly important for individuals who are sensitive to light or prone to eye strain.

LED and CFL bulbs, however, often emit a more limited and imbalanced spectrum of light. In some cases, this can lead to visual discomfort, glare, and even exacerbate symptoms of eye strain and fatigue.^[5] A study published in the Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine found that office workers exposed to high levels of blue light from artificial sources reported higher levels of eye strain, headaches, and general discomfort.^[5]

In conclusion, incandescent light bulbs can provide a more visually comfortable environment, potentially reducing eye strain and discomfort associated with artificial light sources.

Health Implications of the Ban

While the ban on incandescent light bulbs is aimed at reducing energy consumption and mitigating environmental harm, it may inadvertently lead to potential public health issues. As discussed in previous sections, incandescent bulbs can offer several health benefits, including mood enhancement, sleep regulation, and visual comfort.^{[2, 3, 4, 5]} If incandescent bulbs become less accessible, people might increasingly rely on LED and CFL bulbs, which may not provide the same health benefits. Consequently, the ban could contribute to increased prevalence of sleep disruptions, mood disorders, and visual discomfort among the general population.

Alternative Solutions

Given the potential health benefits of incandescent light bulbs, it is important to consider alternative approaches that strike a balance between environmental sustainability and human health. One possible solution is to encourage the development of energy-efficient lighting options that still provide a full light spectrum, similar to that of incandescent bulbs. For instance, advancements in LED technology have led to the production of "warm" LEDs, which emit a warmer light spectrum with less blue light, making them more similar to incandescent bulbs in terms of light quality.^[6]

Another option is to promote the responsible use of incandescent bulbs in situations where their health benefits outweigh the environmental concerns. For example, individuals with certain health conditions, such as seasonal affective disorder or light sensitivity, might benefit from using incandescent bulbs in specific areas of their homes, while using more energy-efficient options in other spaces. This approach would help to minimize the overall environmental impact while still ensuring access to the health benefits of incandescent lighting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ban on incandescent light bulbs is an important step toward reducing energy consumption and mitigating environmental harm. However, it is crucial to consider the potential health benefits of these bulbs, which are often overlooked in the debate. By examining the full spectrum of consequences associated with the ban, policy-makers and individuals can make more informed decisions that take both environmental and human health into account. Continued research and technological innovation can help to develop lighting solutions that strike the optimal balance between energy efficiency, environmental impact, and the well-being of the people who depend on these light sources.

1. The Hill. (n.d.). Energy Dept to ban sale of some light bulbs: Here's why. Retrieved from https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/3932145-energy-dept-to-ban-sale-of-some-light-bulbs-heres-why/
2. Health Lighting. (n.d.). Best Light Bulbs for Health. Retrieved from https://healthlighting.com/blogs/wellness/best-light-bulbs-for-health#:~:text=We suggest using incandescent or,of light for your eyes!
3. Golden, R. N., Gaynes, B. N., Ekstrom, R. D., Hamer, R. M., Jacobsen, F. M., Suppes, T., ... & Nemeroff, C. B. (2005). The efficacy of light therapy in the treatment of mood disorders: a review and meta-analysis of the evidence. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 162(4), 656-662.
4. Figueiro, M. G., & Rea, M. S. (2010). The effects of red and blue lights on circadian variations in cortisol, alpha amylase, and melatonin. International Journal of Endocrinology, 2010.
5. Lin, Y. H., & Yang, C. C. (2017). Effects of different correlated color temperatures of LED lighting on visual acuity and physiological parameters in different age groups. Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, 34(10), 941-947.
6. Kim, W. J., Koo, Y. S., Park, S. Y., Kim, W. R., Kang, E. B., & Park, K. S. (2016). A comparative study on the visual comfort and energy saving of LED lighting considering correlated color temperature. Energy and Buildings, 125, 196-205.