How EMF Harm Cells

While more research is necessary to better understand the effects of low-frequency EMF exposure, a growing body of data suggests our ubiquitous contact with EMF may have more impact on the body than we realize.

EMFs affect cellular communication by impacting voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) which is a method of communication our body uses to send signals across membranes (1).

VGCCs regulate processes such as neurotransmitter function, gene expression, muscle contractions, and many more essential biologic functions.

A disruption of this pathway can be linked to:

  • A change in heart rate and blood pressure (2)
  • Cognitive impairment (3)
  • DNA damage (4)
  • Altered protein expression in the skin (5)

Wireless communications companies insist that Wi-Fi and cellular devices are safe. And the FDA states there is no causational link between EMF and negative side effects on the body.

However, a report in 2012 containing more than 2,000 studies examining the effect of EMFs on human health found that low-level radiation, such as non-ionizing radiation emitted by your cell phone, can play a role in cancer, Alzheimer’s, and other conditions (6).

As our exposure to EMFs is at an all-time high in modern culture, some claim the cumulative effect of EMFs from all sources lead to a phenomenon called electrosensitivity.

This could be due to its effect on VGCC, antioxidant status, or other cellular pathways.

Is Electrosensitivity Real?

EMFs may be invisible, but that doesn’t mean our bodies aren’t potentially affected by them. Their cumulative effect may be similar to that of pollution or toxin exposure–the body can mediate the effects up to a certain threshold, but past that, we begin to notice undesirable, confusing symptoms.

One way EMFs may harm the body is through the reduction of antioxidant status, which produces free radicals and oxidative damage.

Even though the FDA doesn’t consider EMFs to be harmful, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has deemed EMFs a “possible human carcinogen” based on both observational human data and animal research which links low-frequency EMFs to the development of tumors (7).

If you feel any of the following symptoms, an integrative medicine approach can help you address the root cause and restore balance.

Electrosensitivity Symptoms

Electrosensitivity can present in dozens of different signs and symptoms and can affect individuals differently, depending on their own level of sensitivity. Symptoms of EMF sensitivity include (8):

  • Insomnia
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Nausea
  • Changes in heart rhythm
  • Dizziness
  • Muscle aches
  • Changes in mood
  • Depression

Children may be especially susceptible to EMF sensitivity as their skin is thinner and they generally have a higher percentage of water in their tissues, which may make them more sensitive to EMF effects than adults.

Studies have also found a troubling correlation between proximity to high-EMF locations such as radio and high-voltage power lines to childhood cancers (9).

Electrosensitivity and Sleep

Some studies have shown that exposure to EMF may negatively impact natural circadian rhythm function, interfering with quality sleep.

Whether or not EMFs impact sleep, devices are not conducive to healthy sleep due to the effect of blue light upon melatonin production at night. Blue light from electronics decreases melatonin production, reducing our capacity for restorative sleep.

EMF Sensitivity and Mood

EMF may alter one pathway via voltage-gated calcium channels which impacts neurotransmitter function–like serotonin and dopamine–which are responsible for mood, memory, attention, and focus.

Besides a disruption in VGCC, devices like smartphones, tablets, and social media are engineered to exploit our vulnerabilities and brain function, triggering an addictive dopamine release which can lead to major behavioral problems and continued device dependence.

EMFs and Attention

In one study, researchers found that prolonged exposure to EMF contributed to myelin sheath damage in mice, contributing to hyperactivity-like behavior (10).

If you are one of many pursuing ADHD symptom management free of medication, limiting screen time may help, in addition to addressing these 4 imbalances.

EMF Sensitivity and Fertility

Men are often instructed to avoid setting laptops directly on their lap, citing an increase in temperature which can harm sperm. But other research shows EMF may play a role in decreased sperm motility and viability (11).

With all the exposure to EMF we encounter in almost every activity of our lives, it can be tempting to want to seal yourself in a bubble. But don’t get discouraged, there are easy ways to reduce your exposure to EMFs–and many of these actions have other functional benefits as well!

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