We are constantly bombarded with propaganda campaigns claiming that sunlight inherently damages the eyes. I strongly disagree and think it solely depends on the context of one’s lifestyle.
My reasoning is based on personal experience and a foundational understanding of human biology.
There are numerous mitochondria found in the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and optic nerve head within the eye. These are the major sites of glaucomatous damage.
We know that isolated artificial blue light (400-480m) impinges on the retina, damages the mitochondria, and decreases the rate of ATP formation, stimulating ROS and resulting in cell death.
Contrast this with the regenerative red light wavelengths (650-800m) which impact the mitochondrial complex IV or cytochrome oxidase to increase the rate of ATP and ROS causing the generation of multiple beneficial factors.
This is why I’m a firm believer that alien light is one of the main culprits of rising glaucoma rates while natural sunlight in the right context contributes to the regeneration of eyesight and maintaining optimal ocular function.
There are exceptions if you’re on the snow, water, sand where light is magnified to a harmful degree, especially if you’re out there for a long time.
Poor Eyesight In Relation To Genetics
Speaking from personal experience, the argument that “it’s genetics” is garbage because my father had macular degeneration throughout his life and my mother still wears reading glasses to this day.
I, on the other hand, have nearly perfect vision because I implement the correct strategies around light to make sure my eyes operate at their best.
If it were due to genetics, then I would inevitably have shitty eyesight right now at the age of 26, especially considering many of my close friends around the same age need reading glasses, contacts, and other tools.
There’s something real to this.
From the biological mechanisms to evolutionary biology to anecdotal experience to stronger scientific research on red light wavelengths and melanin, this is a no-brainer.
The only problem is that you’ll be vilified by mainstream ophthalmologists because this is outside of their awareness, even though they have quite literally dedicated their entire lives to the field.
These are the same people who perform Lasik surgery on a given individual and have no clue that they’re destroying essential non-visual photoreceptors like neuropsin and melanopsin, leading to a cascade of metabolic and mental problems.
We are up against a massive propaganda campaign on this subject that is NOT based on evolutionary biology or basic biology. Rather, it’s based on using fear tactics to scare the shit out of you into avoiding the sun, using sunscreen, wearing sunglasses, and doing everything in your power to ruin your biology by creating a mismatch in your light environment.
Violet Light Prevents Myopia
Below, I’ve included compelling evidence that shows violet light (a natural part of the light spectrum from the sun) can prevent against myopia.
How is this possible?
Because at the molecular level, violet light increased the expression of a gene known as EGR1 which happens to prevent myopia.
I’m telling you, the evolutionary biological underpinnings of this make sense. We evolved with the sun, hence we are adapted and primed for its benefits at the cellular and genetic level.
Red Light Wavelengths vs Isolated Blue Light Wavelengths
Couple that with the fact that our mitochondria (especially in the eye) ONLY operate efficiently from red light rather than isolated blue light and you begin to gain more clarity around the subject.
This is also why sun gazing is so powerful for eye regeneration and health. During those times, you get an incredible influx of red light wavelengths from the sun due to the angle of the sun in relation to the Earth.
Consider that maybe everything you’ve ever been taught is a lie because conglomerates stand to make a quick buck off of your ignorance and indoctrination on such subjects.
That’s why I do what I do.
To bring awareness and truth in relation to health based on my experience and that of my coaching clients as well.
The single greatest routine you could have for eye health is the following:
Prioritize watching sunrise and sunset every day
Do not wear sunglasses/contacts when you are out under sunlight
Do not wear sunscreen when you’re out under sunlight
Protect yourself from artificial light from all screen through f.lux or 1 Tap Zap
Once sunset arrives, use candles/red light bulbs/fireplace/blue light blockers - be militant about this as well because your biology is sensitive to light
These are a few places I’d want people to start.
If you have questions, leave them in the comments below.
Much love,
Zaid
Many Thanks for this insight, Sir. Any tips for dealing with presbyopia?