Radiation
TLDR - Radiation is categorized as ionizing and non-ionizing. Both have negative impacts on health.
Ionizing vs Non-Ionizing
Radiation is energy that travels through space in the form of waves or particles. It comes in two main types: ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
Ionizing radiation has enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, creating ions. This type of radiation can damage the DNA in our cells, which can lead to cancer.
X-rays: Used in medical imaging to view inside the body. While essential for diagnosis, excessive exposure can increase cancer risk.
Gamma Rays: Emitted from radioactive materials and used in cancer treatment. High energy and deeply penetrating, they pose significant health risks if not properly managed.
Radon Gas: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes. Long term exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
Cosmic Rays: High energy radiation from outer space. While our atmosphere protects us from most cosmic rays, frequent fliers and astronauts receive higher doses.
Non-ionizing radiation has less energy and doesn't ionize atoms. It can still cause harm, especially with prolonged exposure.
Microwave Radiation: Used in microwave ovens and some communication devices. While it heats food efficiently, direct exposure can cause burns and heat damage.
Radiofrequency (RF) Radiation: Emitted by cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, and Bluetooth devices. Long term exposure has links to cancer.
Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: From the sun and tanning beds. While necessary for vitamin D synthesis there are still concerns if you’re not supporting your bodies natural protection or healing pathways. Tanning beds are always a concern due unnatural light spectrum as you aren’t getting the healing right light frequencies.
Visible Light: Literally all light we see is a form of radiation. Most are not harmful in the low doses and when seen in the full spectrum we have evolved with.
Infrared Radiation: Felt as heat, used in heat lamps and remote controls. Prolonged exposure to intense infrared radiation can cause thermal burns and heat related injuries.
Cumulative Exposure: Unlike some forms of ionizing radiation, non-ionizing radiation exposure can be cumulative. This means that the effects can build up over time with continuous exposure. For example, long term use of cell phones or living near a Wi-Fi router can contribute to prolonged exposure to RF radiation.
Disruption of Biological Communication: There is growing evidence that non-ionizing radiation can interfere with the way our body communicates with itself. Our cells use electrical signals to communicate, and prolonged exposure to non-ionizing radiation can disrupt these signals. This disruption can potentially lead to an endless list of symptoms.
Oxidative Stress: Some studies suggest that RF radiation can lead to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells, leading to oxidative stress. This can damage cellular components, including DNA, proteins, and lipids, contributing to various health problems.