In 3, 2, 1, do microwave ovens cause cancer? If your answer’s no, give yourself a point. Add another point if you can explain why not.
Now, if you don’t know, that’s okay. The short explanation is that microwaves are classified as non-ionizing radiation. When people talk about radiation that causes cancer, they’re referring to higher energy or higher frequency radiation, aka ionizing radiation.
So, where do electromagnetic fields or EMF fall under? Ionizing or non-ionizing radiation? Is EMF dangerous?
Let’s talk about EMF in detail, including tips on how to reduce EMF exposure.
What is EMF?
Electromagnetic fields or EMFs are areas of moving electrical charges. You might not see them, but EMFs are everywhere.
Some sources are natural, for example, thunderstorms. Others are manufactured, including microwaves, radio waves, and X-rays. It doesn’t automatically mean that the latter are dangerous to human health.
However, there’s good reason for people to be wary of EMFs that involve ionizing radiation.
Is EMF Dangerous? Understanding Ionizing Radiation
Microwaves and other non-ionizing EMFs have a longer wavelength and a lower frequency than ionizing EMFs with shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies.
The most important thing to remember here is that non-ionizing EMFs cannot break chemical bonds, but ionizing ones can. This ability to break chemical bonds can result in oxidative damage brought about by freeing unstable atoms (free radicals).
Now, one episode of EMF exposure won’t give you cancer (unless you receive higher doses than usual). If it did, then no one should get an X-ray. It’s prolonged exposure that can cause long-term health problems, such as fertility complications, fetal development issues, etc.
After Exposure: What Are Some EMF Symptoms?
Suppose a person received high levels of radiation in a short period. They might experience the following symptoms: vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and headache. These are the typical signs of ARS or acute radiation syndrome.
Some may recover, but others might not be so lucky. Severe ARS symptoms may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, seizures, and coma.
How to Protect Yourself From Prolonged EMF Exposure
While non-ionizing radiation may not cause cancer, it’s still a good idea to limit your exposure to it. That’s why it’s best to place your phone somewhere far when you’re not using it, especially when you’re sleeping. It’s also wise to unplug occasionally, giving yourself day-offs from using electronic devices.
If you’re fond of listening to music, use your phone or tablet’s speaker functions. Earpieces can also help reduce your exposure to radiofrequency. EMF blockers like 5G blocking fabrics are also worth considering now that you know you can’t totally escape electromagnetic fields.
As for reducing ionizing radiation exposure, try to avoid tanning beds and only get medically necessary X-rays.
EMFs: Should You Be Scared?
Now that you know the answer to “Is EMF dangerous?” do you think you should stock up on EMF blocking products?
Before adding too many items to your cart, try to research which products are effective. You may also browse our site for more health tips and advice.