By Rebecca Murray 

With the recent buzz over cell phones and their potential link to cancer many of us are left wondering if near constant exposure to the low levels of radiation all around us could be bad for our health, and it’s not just cell phones. All of the energy-efficient appliances we surround ourselves with emit transient electricity, a fluctuating electromagnetic field (EMF) that charges the electrons in human cells and may interfere with everything from insulin production to immune system responses. EMF’s affect the blood brain barrier allowing blood vessels to leak into the brain; already researchers are linking EMF’s to dementia, heart disease and a variety of cancers. While there is no escaping transient electricity; it is emitted by everything from computers to refrigerators, there are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure and protect your health.

Don’t use your laptop on your lap

Laptops are a strong producer of electromagnetic fields especially when they are plugged in to a wall outlet. Whenever possible only use your laptop when it is running on battery power and rest it on a table to reduce your exposure.

Be Careful What Kind of Light bulbs You Use

Avoid using compact fluorescent bulbs. While they may be energy efficient the way they save energy by turn on and off tens of thousands of times per second makes them emit the dangerous transient or dirty electricity. Stick with LED light bulbs instead.

Only Use Your Cell Phone When You Have Full Service

In areas where the service is weak your phone increases its power making it give off more radiation. Try to use it only when you have full bars of service to reduce your risk of exposure.

Unplug WiFi When it’s Not in Use

If practical use wired internet in your home but if you must have wireless make sure the router is far away from your work or sleeping space and unplug it when you are done for the day.

Keep your Cell Phone Away from Your Body

When you’re not using your cell phone try to keep it in a purse or backpack rather than in your pocket. You can also limit exposure by giving up your Bluetooth head set and texting rather than calling whenever possible.

While there is no way to completely avoid the EMF pollution that is the consequence of all our modern devices there are steps you can take to keep you and your family safer. Limit the amount of time you are on your cell phone and unplug devices that aren’t in use and it could make a big difference in your health.