Beat jetlag and sleep problems with new Australian invention

It might look like a pair of sci-fi sunglasses, but what Re-Timer does comes down to the power of real science: it uses light to tweak circadian rhythms and effectively reset your body clock.

The device can be used to help remedy the debilitating effects of jetlag, or allow shift workers to wake on time and remain more alert, or even to help get teenagers out of the bed in the morning.

Re-Timer was developed at Flinders University in South Australia by Professor Leon Lack, who is an expert in the psychology and biology of sleep.

It is based on the principle that our brains respond to the light around us in order to regulate our sleep cycles. By controlling what light we’re exposed to and when can help shift our sleep cycles in predictable ways.

For example, wear the glasses for three days for 50 minutes each day after awakening in the morning to advance the body clock i.e. fall asleep and wake up earlier. Alternatively, if falling asleep and waking up too early is the problem, wear them for 50 minutes before bed if you want to delay your body clock i.e. wake up later.

“The light from Re-Timer stimulates the part of the brain responsible for regulating the 24-hour body clock,” said Professor Lack. “Body clocks or circadian rhythms influence the timing of all our sleeping and waking patterns, alertness, performance levels and metabolism.

“Photoreceptors in our eyes detect sunlight, signal our brain to be awake and alert, and set our rhythms accordingly. These rhythms vary regularly over a 24-hour cycle. However, this process is often impaired by staying indoors, travelling to other time zones, working irregular hours, or a lack of sunlight during winter months.

“Our extensive research studies have shown that green light is one of the most effective wavelengths for advancing or delaying the body clock, and to-date is the only wearable device using green light.”

The glasses can be worn while performing other tasks, such as reading the morning paper or your favourite novel at bedtime. “The glasses have been designed to be user friendly and comfortable to wear so people can go about their normal activities wearing them at work or at home,” Lack said.

ReTimer currently sells for $249 from the online outlet.