For those who enjoy reading in bed, there is a major reason why you should reach for a Kindle instead of an iPad. Studies show that reading the iPad in bed affects sleeping habits according to a recent article from the Los Angeles Times. The Kindle and other e-book readers such as Barnes & Noble’s Nook and Sony’s e-reader use e-ink. E-ink technology is supposed to simulate the process of reading a page from a “real” book.
However, the iPad uses an LCD screen that emits light like on a computer screen or a television does. On one hand, you can save buying a light and read the iPad under the covers while your significant other, if you have one, sleeps. As you might know, it is recommended that you take a break from the computer or TV before bed so the brain can prepare itself for rest. Since we hold an iPad in such close proximity to our faces, the effect of the artificial light is much greater than from watching a TV across the room. The same idea goes for using the iPad. The Los Angeles Times article says that exposure to such bright and artificial light can slow the production of melatonin, which helps us sleep.
So, curl up with your Kindle, and the reading light if you need it and enjoy some nightly reading pleasure.
Melatonin helps you “fall asleep” not stay asleep… As day turns to night, your eyes relay the information to the pineal gland which in turn produces melatonin… light inhibits the production. So melatonin has a function that matches it’s production pattern… its sort of like a biological “alarm” clock… as melatonin levels increase, you feel tired.
So if you are already tired when you use an iPad, it shouldn’t change your ability to sleep very much, unless something you read excites you and makes you then stay up…