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Electromagnetic fields

The following information has been compiled by Dr Deanna Minich

The word ‘radiation’ may cause individuals to think about nuclear fallout. However, there are small levels of radiation most people are exposed to regularly that may lead to health problems in some individuals.

As societal reliance on electrical devices increases, as well as continual advances made in technology, so does the importance of understanding the potential risks of radiation and ways to safeguard against them. In 2010, The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation from radiofrequency range, including Bluetooth and cell phones, as a potential carcinogen in humans. More recently, there have been growing concerns about children and adolescents exposed to EMF radiation, which may disrupt normal growth and development.

Many studies point to the potential oxidative damage caused by EMF radiation. A recent study on pregnant rats constantly exposed to EMF radiation showed markers of increased oxidative stress in fetal livers, including decreased cytosolic superoxide dismutase activity, mitochondrial superoxide dismutase levels, and catalase mRNA expression and an increase in malondialdehyde. What’s more, EMF radiation has been associated with increased levels of free radicals, especially if the body’s antioxidant defense system is unable to handle the exposure load. Because oxidative stress is linked to many chronic diseases, it is imperative to understand how to avoid exposure and protect the body.

Radiation 101

Radiation falls into two categories: electromagnetic waves (non-ionizing) and particle (ionizing). Electromagnetic waves produce radiation at low or high levels. Low-energy electromagnetic examples include electrical, infrared, visible light, and ultraviolet light. Higher levels include x-rays and gamma rays.

Particle radiation is a dangerous form of radiation connected to nuclear reactors or nuclear bombs. Most people are relatively safe from it unless they live or work in or near a nuclear reactor site, there is a nuclear meltdown (e.g., Fukushima and Chernobyl), or if an atomic bomb explodes in a residential area.

While threats of radiation from these sources are alarming, the bigger radiation threat to most people may come from the small amounts of radiation humans are exposed to every day. Exposures include electronic devices, as well as routine dental and medical procedures. Additionally, minerals in the earth and the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays also emit small amounts of radiation, with some areas of the world having a higher level than others.

Some of the common contributors to daily or routine radiation exposure include:

  • Air travel
  • Bluetooth devices
  • Cell phones
  • Cordless phones
  • Laptops
  • Microwaves
  • Powerlines
  • Cellphone towers or base stations
  • Radios
  • Smart devices
  • Television
  • Wi-Fi
  • X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, etc.

People in some specific careers also are exposed to radiation at higher doses. A recent study found that pilots had a higher risk of certain diseases, including cancer. At least some of the contributing factors stem from the cosmic radiation to which one is exposed when in the air. An older study demonstrated that electronic equipment repairers are at a greater risk of oxidative stress due to EMF exposure. Future research may demonstrate additional risks for other professions.

Risks of Routine Radiation Exposure

There is an acceptable amount of exposure for one person to radiation. The average exposure in America is about 6.2 millisieverts per year from a variety of sources, including natural background sources, such as cosmic and terrestrial radiation, as well as medical sources. Many of the estimates do not include EMF radiation. To put this in perspective, 10 sieverts (Sv), or 10,000 mSv, is the amount that can be fatal within weeks of exposure. Chernobyl workers who died were exposed to 6 Sv or 6,000 mSv.

Although the risk of ionized or particle radiation is generally accepted, the view on the risk of EMF, especially low-frequency EMF, is more controversial. Some studies have started to demonstrate the potential to cause harm. Many of the studies remain at the animal model and cellular model level. However, enough evidence has accumulated for the International Agency for Research on Cancer to list electromagnetic radiation from radiofrequency range (including Bluetooth and cell phones) as potentially carcinogenic in humans despite the limited evidence.

Modern society heavily relies on electricity, especially Wi-Fi, computers, tablets, and smartphones. However, this reliance is still relatively new. Studies on the long-term effects do not exist as not enough time has passed since it has been less than two decades that technology has been used in this way. The literature that does exist points to a need to be aware and potentially take protective action in case there are long-term consequences yet to be discovered.

Potential Diseases/Harm

The literature has limited studies detailing possible health problems associated with EMF radiation exposure. Much of the evidence is from animal studies or mechanistic studies at the cellular level. However, a few health problems, with some evidence pointing to a possible link, include:

Many studies point to the potential oxidative damage caused by EMF radiation, and oxidative stress is linked to many chronic diseases. Although some studies do not demonstrate a significant change to the oxidative stress that would overwhelm the antioxidant capacity and create damage, it is another stressor that may become the tipping point in those susceptible or who do not have sufficient antioxidant capabilities due to poor intake of antioxidants or other factors. Additionally, the effect may come from a long-term, additive effect for which there are yet studies.

Some people are more susceptible to issues with EMF exposure, a condition termed electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) or idiopathic environmental intolerance attributed to EMF (IEI-EMF). Individuals with EHS are more likely to experience migraine disease with detrimental impacts on quality of life. Children are at a higher risk, as well.

Hormesis: Can EMF Be Beneficial to Health?

An emerging area of health research is that of hormesis. Hormesis is the theory of how an organism adapts to a stressor. Wherein one large stressor may cause disease, a small or low dose of that same stressor may produce an adaptive, survival response that supports health. The concept of hormesis is often discussed in prolonging lifespan.

Considering hormesis, EMF exposure may also have health benefits worth considering. One animal study found that low-frequency EMF exposure could be therapeutic and neuroprotective. Other research has suggested benefits to cancer management, gene expression, and immune function when the exposure dose is very low (e.g., 1-100 Hz, in an alternating fashion). A study on breast cancer cells found that extremely low-frequency EMF could induce apoptosis of these cancer cells and produce a synergistic effect with chemotherapy. Despite the potential advantages, avoiding chronic exposures is still recommended for health, particularly because more research is required in this field of study.

Pulsed EMF (PEMF) is also broadly discussed in therapeutic settings. For example, PEMF has been utilized as an effective, noninvasive therapy for musculoskeletal disorders, including tendon injuries, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, osteonecrosis, chronic pain, and fibromyalgia. It has also been used to improve recovery from spinal cord injuries by increasing the differentiation of specific cells that support myelination. Although EMF is considered harmful to health, PEMF uses a much lower exposure time and frequency, producing a beneficial health effect. The mechanism of action is thought to be through cell responses and functions, including apoptosis, proliferation, differentiation, intracellular signaling, and subsequent gene expression.

Ways to Protect Yourself

In 21stcentury life, it can be challenging to completely live without some of these technology conveniences, especially cell phones and Wi-Fi. It may also be difficult to avoid certain medical or dental imaging and frequent air travel. Besides completely avoiding activities and devices associated with radiation emission, there are a few strategies that can help protect the body.

One of the first ways is to reduce radiation exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets advice based on higher-risk radiation exposure, such as an increase in natural radiation or a nuclear situation. However, the concepts can be applied to working with low levels of radiation.

To minimize risk, it is recommended that exposure be reduced. One such way is to minimize the amount of time spent exposed to radiation. While radiation sickness is an immediate (i.e., within hours of exposure) potential outcome of large exposures, longer durations of low exposure may also pose a threat. One study found that individuals who died of cancer were exposed to low doses of radiation over time, suggesting that a cumulative effect is harmful to health.

Other recommendations to reduce radiation exposure include distance (i.e., keep as much distance from the source as possible) and shielding (e.g., use protective shielding, such as a lead blanket or apron when getting an X-ray). One study found that increasing the distance from an X-ray machine decreased exposure risk, especially for taller operators or individuals at a greater height from the machine. While shielding is still commonly used in clinical practice, advancements made to radiography require new and improved shielding technology.

Other devices touted as protective shields against EMF include stickers, device covers, bracelets, paints, fabrics, and more. However, the current evidence suggests these devices are ineffective at protecting against EMF and in some cases, may be health risks in and of themselves. Much of the available research on these devices suggests that their protection is theoretical at best. More research is required in this field of study.

Practical Recommendations to Reduce Exposure to EMF

How can one apply these concepts to help reduce exposure to EMF and other low-level radiation? Some common-sense changes in routine may help, including:

  • Avoid having electronic devices in the bedroom.
  • Unplug electronic devices, especially TVs, computers, and microwaves when not in use.
  • Turn off Wi-Fi at night, or when not in use.
  • Avoid carrying cell phones close to the body (i.e., in pockets or in a bra) when possible. Although an older study indicated reduced sperm quality in men who carried their phones in their pockets versus their belts, newer studies have not found an association between sperm quality with cell phone exposure. Improved technology is a potential reason for this study’s outcome.
  • Keep cell phones and tablets at a distance when not in use.
  • Use the speakerphone function to talk on the phone.
  • Avoid placing laptops and tablets on the body while in use.
  • Take some time away from electricity and enjoy the outdoors.

In addition to reducing exposure to devices, individuals can also strengthen their antioxidant capacities to naturally protect against oxidative stress. This is especially important for preparing for higher levels of radiation in unavoidable circumstances, such as for work, during air travel, or as part of a medical or dental procedure.

Building Antioxidant Capacity Through Nutrition

Diet plays a key role in strengthening the body’s antioxidant capacity, especially a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables. Studies have demonstrated these nutrients can protect against EMF radiation; however, more current research is required to update these previous findings. An easy way to ensure the consumption of these nutrients is to eat a colorful diet filled with whole plant foods.

Consult your qualified naturopath or give us a call for nutritional and lifestyle guidance.