Is 5G Safe? What You Need To Know To Protect Yourself From EMFs

Take a look around you. Whether you’re at home, in your office, or even out in the community, chances are you can see at least a few electronic devices nearby. In fact, if you’re reading this, you’re probably staring at the screen of an electronic device right now. 

From cell phones and computers to security systems and microwave ovens, life without technology is almost unimaginable for most of us. And thanks to our dependence on high-tech devices, each and every one of us is now exposed to unprecedented levels of man-made electromagnetic fields – also known as EMFs. And while EMFs may not be visible, their impact on your health is very real. 

Let’s take a look at exactly why EMFs are harmful, how the up and coming 5G technology will impact EMFs, and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from their effects.

 

What Exactly Are Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs)?

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible fields of energy also known as radiation.1 As the name implies, EMFs are created when you combine an electric field with a magnetic field. Electric fields are produced by voltage (or electricity), and magnetic fields are created as that current of energy flows in a given direction.

EMFs are nothing new – we’ve been receiving EMFs from the sun and the earth since the beginning of time. Even our own bodies have electrical and magnetic functions. But since the discovery of electricity, EMF levels have been steadily rising. 

Nearly every piece of technology we depend on and enjoy in modern society generates electromagnetic fields. Devices such as:

• Computers
• Radio signals
• Televisions
• Power lines
• Cell phones
• Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth 
• Smart meters (digital electric and gas meters that measure utility consumption)
• X-rays
• MRI’s
• UV lights

These days EMF exposure comes from far more places than just the sun or the earth – and levels are only going up.  

 

Types of EMFs

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences categorizes EMFs into two groups based on their frequencies:1

Low-level, non-ionizing EMF radiation: These are EMFs that have a frequency lower than visible light and include things like Wi-Fi, power lines, or Bluetooth.

High-level, ionizing EMF radiation: These are EMFs that have a frequency higher than visible light and include things like X-rays, gamma rays, and sunlight.

There’s no argument that prolonged or frequent exposure to high-level ionizing EMFs are harmful to health. It’s common knowledge that staying out in the sun too long will cause sunburn or that x-rays are dangerous if you’re pregnant.

But what about our constant exposure to low-level EMFs like the ones emitted by our cell phones and Wi-Fi? As it turns out, while the health effects may be more inconspicuous, exposure to low-level EMFs over time can also have serious consequences.

 

What Are the Dangers of Consistent EMF Exposure?

The dangerous side effects of EMF exposure are not immediately noticeable. Instead, the damage accumulates over time. Some of the most notable and serious conditions that have been linked to EMFs are:

 

Cancer

Currently, EMFs are identified as “possible carcinogens”. But many researchers are pushing for EMFs to be upgraded to the classification of “known carcinogen” because studies have found evidence directly linking EMF exposure to an increased risk of:2

• Brain cancer
• Vestibular nerve tumors
• Salivary gland tumors
• Breast cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Leukemia

Researchers believe that these proven links between EMFs and cancer warrant EMFs to be classified as “known carcinogens.” And that more research is warranted to determine public health risk and exposure management. 

 

Neurological Deficits and Disorders

Because your brain and nervous system have their own electrical functions, they can be particularly susceptible to damage from EMFs. Researchers have found that EMF exposure can affect certain neurological functions and cause:3,4,5

• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Headaches
• Impaired memory

But they can also lead to permanent and serious damage as well. Evidence has been found potentially linking EMFs to increased neurodegeneration and certain neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.6

 

Reproductive Issues

EMF exposure may also impact the reproductive system in both men and women. Studies have found that EMFs can reduce sperm quality in men 7 and even increase the risk of miscarriage in women 8.

 

How Do EMFs Cause Damage?

The exact mechanism behind EMFs harmful effects is still up for debate but is likely due to a combination of factors. One way that EMFs cause harm is by increasing free radical concentrations in the body. It goes something like this:9,10,11

An increase in harmful free radicals: Free radicals are unstable atoms that impact chemical reactions in your body. When levels are balanced they are necessary and beneficial – but when they are imbalanced they can wreak havoc on your body.

Oxidative stress: When there’s an imbalance and free radical levels are left unchecked, they cause damage on a cellular level which is known as oxidative stress. 

Genetic damage: Oxidative stress can damage proteins, lipids, and even your DNA – which can alter the way your cells are able to reproduce.

 

Symptoms of EMF Exposure or Hypersensitivity

In recent years there’s been an increase in what’s known as EMF hypersensitivity. People with EMF hypersensitivity are much more sensitive to EMF exposure and can have a much more immediate and pronounced reaction. But even if you’re not hypersensitive, chronic exposure to high levels of EMFs can cause:

• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Heart palpitations
• Digestive issues
• Red skin
• Tingling
• Burning sensation
• Insomnia
• Muscle aches and pains
• Depression

Because symptoms can be so vague and widespread, it can often be challenging to pinpoint EMFs as part of the problem. This is particularly true if you are already battling chronic inflammation or a condition that is compromising your immune system. 

Many of my patients struggling with chronic infections like Lyme disease, parasite infections, or even toxic mold exposure will often notice much more sensitivity to EMFs. So if you’re struggling with vague symptoms or chronic illness, it may be time to take a look at EMF levels in your home.

 

What Is 5G?

The term 5G stands for fifth-generation wireless. 5G is a new wireless network technology designed to more efficiently transmit digital data. Cell phone companies gearing up for 5G are promising faster speed, better coverage, and an enhanced capacity to penetrate through obstacles (like through the walls of buildings).

5G technology delivers on these promises in two ways:

1. Higher frequency waves known as millimeter waves. Millimeter waves have been described as a sort of “super-highway” for transmitting large amounts of frequencies at much greater speed.12
2. More cell towers. 5G technology will require the installment of millions of new cell towers. 5G technology also requires more cell towers to operate effectively – meaning in cities where 5G is deployed, there will likely be a much higher density of towers than were needed for older wireless networks.

This is great news for businesses that rely on technology or for streaming videos at home. But the introduction of 5G networks could spell trouble for your health.

 

Why 5G EMFs Are Dangerous?

Part of the problem with 5G is that its introduction doesn’t mean that older wireless technologies like 4G or 3G are being replaced. Instead, 5G will accompany these older networks and work in conjunction with them.

This means as more and more 5G towers are implemented, your daily unavoidable exposure to EMFs will increase exponentially. The infrastructure of these wireless networks will not only create faster downloads but will create levels of radiation never seen before.

On top of this, since 5G technology is so new, there are no long-term studies on its effect on health – there aren’t even animal studies on it. There’s significant proof that the dangers of EMFs are very real, but exactly how dangerous 5G is to human health is still unclear. 

But since our reliance on technology is only growing, 5G and other forms of EMF exposure are inevitable. So when it comes to reducing the risk of the negative side effects, you are your own best advocate –  let’s take a look at how you can protect yourself.   

 

EMF Protection: How To Reduce Exposure

Exposure to EMFs clearly has the potential to be damaging to your health. But does this mean you need to move off the grid or start putting tinfoil on your windows to protect yourself? Definitely not!

Modern technology is amazing and improves our lives in many ways – so of course, we want to enjoy the benefits even if it does mean exposure to EMFs. Your best bet is to stay informed and be proactive. Here are some simple steps you can take to minimize exposure while helping your body combat the exposure you can’t avoid.

 

How To Limit Exposure To EMFs At Home:

• Use ethernet cords instead of Wi-Fi
• Unplug your Wi-Fi router at night or when not in use
• Keep devices off or in airplane mode when not in use
• Avoid Smart TV’s that use Wi-Fi – or unplug when not in use
• Make sure your homes electrical wiring isn’t emitting unnecessary EMFs – transformers that convert high voltage to low voltage emit unnecessary energy
• Keep devices like your cell phone or tablets away from your body when not in use
• When possible, use speakerphone during phone calls rather than placing the cell phone against your ear
• Consider an EMF meter to measure EMF levels in your home – I recommend the Acousticom 2RF EMF Meter.
• Invest in a Bioelectric Shield Personal Energy Pendant to block and neutralize EMFs (you can get 10 percent off with the code “DrJill”)

 

How to Reduce Your EMF Exposure:

• Earthing (also known as grounding) – having direct contact with the earth’s surface can help stabilize your internal bioelectric environment. You can also purchase earthing sheets or mats to get the benefits while you sleep. (Learn more about earthing while you sleep by clicking here)
• Eat a healthy nutritious diet filled with antioxidant-rich foods to counteract oxidation caused by EMFs
• Reduce your overall toxic burden to help your body better cope with EMF exposure

 

So, How Concerned Should You Be?

Technological advances have no doubt improved the overall quality of life in many ways. And while we’re still learning about their impact on our health, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers that accompany these gadgets that make our world work. 

You’re always your own best advocate. By being aware of your exposure and using the methods outlined above, you can protect yourself from the harmful effects of EMFs without giving up everyday conveniences.  

The more we know, the more we can protect ourselves – so share this article with your friends and family who might not be aware of the potential dangers of EMFs! 

And now I’d love to hear from you. Are you worried about EMFs? If so, what steps are you taking to protect yourself and your loved ones? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below.

 

References

1. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/emf/index.cfm
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935118303475?via%3Dihub
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27083321
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6108834/
5. https://www.nature.com/articles/srep21774
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3444040/
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4074720/
8. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/12/171213095534.htm
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3444040/
10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/
11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3897901/
12. https://www.verizon.com/about/our-company/5g/what-millimeter-wave-technology