What Are EMFs? + How To Protect Yourself

Summary

In a world where technology is everywhere, we need to be sure we’re taking the right steps to consciously monitor our devices and protect ourselves from Electromagnetic Radiation. We break down the science behind EMFs and our recommendations to keep you safe.

In this post, we’ll cover

• What EMFs are 
• Ionizing vs. non-ionizing EMFs
• Big tech & radiation knowledge
• How to protect yourself from EMFs
• Why we’re obsessed with SafeSleeve

We’re always conscious of what we put in and on our bodies — from the foods we eat to the beauty and homecare products we use. But what about the technology we use every single day? 

In today’s world, we often don’t go a day — or let’s be real, even an hour sometimes — without looking at our phones or laptops. That’s why we’ve been learning more about EMFs, their effects, and how to protect ourselves. 

What are EMFs?

All of our electronic devices (laptops, cell phones, tablets, routers, etc.) emit Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR), also known as Electromagnetic Fields (EMF). They are made up of Extremely Low Frequencies (ELF), Radio Frequencies (RF, Wi-fi, data, etc.), and Thermal Radiation (heat). They have all been shown to be potentially harmful — scientists have seen possible links to cancer, cognitive diseases, asthma, fertility issues, and more health problems.

EMFs have a high decay rate, which means most of the exposure is felt within a few inches of the skin and especially with direct contact. This radiation can penetrate plastic device covers, blankets, pillows, and clothes.

Ionizing EMFs

There are different types of EMFs, each with varied sources and impacts. High-energy ionizing radiation includes: 

• Higher-energy ultraviolet (UV) rays
• Gamma rays
• X-rays

This energy can remove an electron from an atom, which can damage the body’s DNA and cells. This can potentially lead to genetic mutations and cancer. 

Non-ionizing EMFs

The other kind of EMF is called ELF, or Extremely Low-Frequency radiation. This radiation energy has the power to move cells around in the body and make them vibrate. This is also known as non-ionizing radiation. Examples of ELF include:

• Radiofrequency (RF) radiation (cell phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) 
• Visible light
• Infrared

SafeSleeve, our favorite company dedicated to helping us prevent harmful radiation damage, spends time researching these powerful frequencies to ensure they are doing the best they can to create quality electronic cases. According to their research, ​​there are two main ways non-ionizing radiation can be harmful:

1. Non-ionizing radiation has been shown to decrease the blood-brain barrier, lowering defenses against other common carcinogens.
2. It has also been shown to interfere with DNA replication. For children, these risks are increased due to longer exposure to electronics, their smaller heads, and lower bone density.

More ways EMFs can be harmful

There has recently been a lot of research into the effects of radiofrequency (RF) radiation from wireless devices like smartphones.

The long-term health ramifications of RF radiation have not been definitively established, but the World Health Organization (WHO) already classified RF radiation as a possible carcinogen to humans. RF has also been linked to reproductive issues, burns, and disrupting the body’s circadian rhythm, which can interfere with quality sleep.

Another study from the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Utah found that in an assessment of 450 cell phones, 90 percent of them exceeded the safety limit imposed by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP).

Do big tech companies know about this?

Unfortunately, yes. According to SafeSleeve, “The latest breaking news from the FCC is that they are investigating Apple and Samsung for violating Radio Frequency (RF) radiation limits emitted by their cell phones. This is in response to an internal study by the Chicago Tribune that showed RF emissions as much as 5 times the limits set by the US government — limits that have already been criticized for being outdated (established in the ‘90s) and overly lenient. A related lawsuit has also been filed against Apple and Samsung.”

So if tech companies aren’t protecting us, how can we protect ourselves?

How to Protect Yourself from EMFs

Much of the danger of EMFs come from physical contact with your devices. Here are a few things you can do to distance yourself from your technology: 

• Get radiation protection sleeves for your devices (more on that in a minute!)
• Use your speakerphone instead of holding your cell to your face
• Keep your phone out of your pockets
• Keep your phone or tablet on airplane mode when you can
• Avoid using tablets and laptops on your lap

As much as we may try, most of us cannot escape using technology. We rely on it for work, connection, and to keep in touch with our loved ones. We can distance ourselves, which is important, but what about when we need to use our devices?

Our Favorite Solution: SafeSleeve Cases

Luckily, we have SafeSleeve to help us with that. They make our favorite EMF-protecting cases for laptops, phones, and tablets. We’re obsessed with this company and truly trust them because they back up everything they do with science. 

SafeSleeve was founded in California by two engineering graduates who wanted to simplify, protect, and enhance the lives of their tech-dependent friends and family. They set out to create a product that was efficient, easy to use, and stylish. 

Some things to know about SafeSleeve cases:

• They can block over 99% of RF (5G, Wi-fi, Cellular, etc.) and 92% of ELF (battery, AC power, etc.) radiation.
• Their technology has been tested in an FCC accredited lab.
• Their Military Grade drop protection also shields your devices from cracks and scratches.
• Plus, they are super cute with lots of styles and colors!

We can’t control everything in our lives. From modern pollution levels, to blue light, to EMF radiation, we can’t simply escape these harmful situations. But there are actions we can take to decrease our risk of harm and take better care of ourselves and those around us. We love that SafeSleeve makes this easier!

Some SafeSleeve products we use EVERY DAY are: 

• SafeSleeve Antimicrobial for iPhone 12
• SafeSleeve Laptop Case
• Anti-Radiation Air Tube Headphones

Check them out here and use code ALMOST30 for 10% off!

*This is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.