How To Protect Yourself From Cell Phone Radiation

The use of cell phones has exploded in recent years. 2013 stats show that 91% of people on the planet have a cell phone. The average age a child gets his first cell phone is now 13.

More and more, cell phones are playing a central role in our fast paced lifestyles. The advent of smartphones has allowed us to check email, take photos and use GPS which has increased the time we spend on these devices.

Why does all this matter? Well, do we really know if there are any negative health effects caused by this new technology?

Is your cell phone causing you health problems?

Cell phones emit an electromagnetic field (EMF) also called electromagnetic radiation that can be absorbed by the body when it comes in close contact with the phone. The World Health Organization has stated that cell phone radiation is a possible carcinogen and people should try to reduce their exposure.

Since cellphones are a relatively new phenomenon and the technology is changing so rapidly there isn’t conclusive research stating that cell phone radiation is harmful to your health… at least not yet. No solid research doesn’t mean cell phones are safe and we shouldn’t be concerned. I don’t know about you but I prefer to err on the side of caution in matters like this and be proactive about my health.

A couple of things to consider…

1. Many families are disconnecting their home phones and opting to each carry a cell phone instead. More time spent talking on a cell phone = increased radiation exposure.

2. Any side effects of the radiation will be more harmful to children than adults. Kids have thinner skulls, ears and skin which allows the radiation waves to travel even further into the children’s brain. Children should avoid making calls on cell phones unless there is an emergency.

How can you protect yourself?

• Get a protective case – A company called Pong has created a cell phone case that redirects cell phone radiation away from your head and neck. The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) has radiation limits that must be met before a cell phone is allowed onto the market. Pong cases are tested in an FCC-certified lab and reduce exposure to radiation by up to 95% below the FCC limit. Other bonuses of the Pong case are that it boosts your signal strength and it reduces dropped calls.
• Use a land line when you’re at work or home – This can dramatically decrease your radiation exposure. Note: most cordless phones these days also emit the same type of radiation as cell phones. Yes, you want to use a classic type of home phone that is wired to the base.
• Turn off your cell phone when possible – This not only protects you from the radiation of the cell but will also give you a break from the bombardment of emails, texts, notifications etc.
• Ground yourself – Have your feet planted barefoot on the earth – this is the simplest and most natural way to help block cell phone radiation. Grounding mats that connect to your electrical outlet are convenient for in home use.
• Use an air-tube headset – These devices keep the EMF away from your head by delivering the sound through an air-tube that extends about 4 inches off the earpiece. They sound great and are a relatively cheap solution.
• When your cell is on, make sure to keep it at least 6 inches away from your body – This may mean carrying it in a bag or purse. When driving be sure to remove it from your pocket and place it in an empty cup holder.
• Use your speakerphone – This allows you to keep the phone at a safe distance while talking on it.
• Avoid using your cell phone in areas where the reception is poor – When you have low signal strength your phone works harder and produces more radiation.

Cell phones aren’t going away any time soon – their popularity continues to gain momentum and for good reason, they are powerful tools. Until more research comes out on the safety (of lack thereof) of cell phone radiation, the best we can do is protect ourselves using the strategies above. Enjoy using your cell phone responsibly.

To your health!
Jesse