To date, it is still a controversial issue if exposure to electromagnetic radiation from cell phones, microwave ovens or other electrical devices has, in the long term, harmful effects on our health. However, radiation and electromagnetic fields can affect our well-being. Those who want to be on the safe side can try to reduce exposure to electromagnetic radiation as much as possible.
The radiations emitted by electrical appliances are also known by the general term "electrosmog". This expression refers to the negative effect that electromagnetic fields can have on our body. Each individual reacts very subjectively to electrosmog, for example in places more exposed to electromagnetic radiation, such as near railway lines or high voltage lines, some people experience symptoms such as headaches, irritability, sleep disorders or difficulties of concentration.
Whether and how electromagnetic waves have a negative effect on our health is a question that divides opinions into the scientific community. Based on the investigations conducted so far in the event of exposure to weak radiation, short- and medium-term damage to health is not presumed. As for the long-term repercussions, there are still no certain data. Here are some practical suggestions for those who, in general, want to protect themselves from this type of pollution, inside and outside the home:
In the living room
Those who still have a CRT TV at home should maintain a distance of at least two or three meters from the device. Older devices even emit X-rays, but in such a small amount that they are not dangerous for health. The new flat-panel TVs are almost free of radiation. What changes instead in the case of the landline phone: the radiation load generated varies depending on the model. Before buying a device, inquire about it. For the internet connection of your computer, it would be better to use a cable system and not the wireless WLAN connection, which is also a source of radiation. If you switch off the router when you go to sleep, the device will not emit any radiation.
In the kitchen
Make sure that the closing mechanism of the microwave oven is hermetic. This is especially important if you have an old appliance because if the door seals are faulty, a radiation leakage that exceeds the permitted limits may occur.
Modern appliances on the market should normally have a protective shield that almost completely prevents microwave leakage. If you have an induction cooker, you must always use pans that completely cover the hob.
In the bedroom
The computer and television should be banned, if possible, from the bedroom because they partly produce strong electromagnetic fields that can compromise sleep. But if you can not do without it you should switch off the devices completely and do not leave them in standby. Radio clocks also emit radiation and should, therefore, be placed away from the head. The same applies to the mobile phone. In general, the following rule applies: avoid, as far as possible, to keep electrical appliances in the bedroom.
Outside the house
Mobile phones emit, in particular, if there is a little network, a large amount of radiation. For this reason, it is good to call in the open and use the earphones so that the device is as far away from the head as possible. It is not recommended to use them by train because the railway contact lines, in turn, create very strong magnetic fields; moreover, in a moving medium, the mobile phone is constantly searching for a network which also varies the power and load of the radiations emitted. Finally, if you are calling by car, use a hands-free device with an external antenna.