“Are Modern Habits Sabotaging Our Health? The Shocking Truth Revealed!”
seasonal eating benefits, circadian rhythm health, light exposure effects
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Evolutionary incongruence refers to the mismatch between our modern lifestyles and the innate biological, evolutionary traits that have shaped our health and well-being. This concept has emerged as a significant factor in the rising rates of disease and ill health in contemporary society. As highlighted in a tweet by Ashley Richmond, certain lifestyle choices significantly contribute to this incongruence, leading to various health issues, including obesity and associated illnesses.

Understanding Evolutionary Incongruence

The human body has evolved over millions of years, adapting to the natural environment and its rhythms. However, modern life often disrupts these natural patterns, leading to a disconnect that can harm our health. This incongruence manifests in several ways, prominently through our eating habits, exposure to artificial light, and our sleep patterns.

Eating Foods Out of Season

One of the key aspects of evolutionary incongruence is our diet. Historically, humans consumed foods that were in season and locally available. This seasonal diet provided a variety of nutrients and ensured that our bodies received the right balance of vitamins and minerals according to the time of year.

In contrast, modern agricultural practices and global food distribution systems allow us to access virtually any food at any time of year. While this may seem convenient, it can lead to dietary imbalances. For example, consuming out-of-season fruits and vegetables may deprive our bodies of the nutrients they need during specific seasons. Research suggests that this dietary incongruence can contribute to obesity and chronic diseases, as our bodies may struggle to process these non-native foods effectively.

The Impact of Artificial Light

Another significant factor in evolutionary incongruence is our exposure to artificial light, particularly blue light emitted by screens. Historically, humans relied on natural light from the sun, which regulated our circadian rhythms and sleep-wake cycles. However, the proliferation of bright screens and artificial lighting has altered our exposure to light, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and increased stress levels.

Being exposed to bright lights after sunset can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. This disruption can lead to insomnia, fatigue, and a host of related health issues. Moreover, the overuse of screens and artificial lighting can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, further exacerbating weight gain and associated health problems.

Sleep Patterns and Circadian Rhythms

The importance of sleep cannot be overstated, as it plays a vital role in overall health and well-being. Our ancestors followed a natural sleep pattern, resting at night when it was dark and being active during the day when it was light. However, modern life often requires us to be awake during the night and sleep during the day, disrupting our natural circadian rhythms.

This misalignment can lead to a range of health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. Studies have shown that individuals who work night shifts or have irregular sleep patterns are at a higher risk for these conditions. Additionally, poor sleep quality can affect our mental health, contributing to anxiety and depression.

The Consequences of Evolutionary Incongruence

The cumulative effects of these lifestyle choices, driven by evolutionary incongruence, have significant implications for public health. The rise in obesity rates, diabetes, and heart disease can be traced back to a combination of poor dietary choices, inadequate sleep, and excessive exposure to artificial light.

To combat these issues, it is essential to adopt lifestyle changes that align more closely with our evolutionary biology. This includes prioritizing seasonal and locally sourced foods, reducing screen time, and establishing a consistent sleep schedule that respects our natural circadian rhythms.

Strategies for Improving Health

1. Seasonal Eating: Focus on incorporating seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet. Not only will this provide your body with the nutrients it needs, but it can also enhance your overall well-being. Consider joining a local farmers’ market or a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to access fresh, seasonal produce.
2. Limit Screen Time: Be mindful of your exposure to screens, especially in the evening. Try to establish a "screen-free" time before bed to allow your body to wind down and prepare for sleep. Instead of scrolling through social media or watching television, consider reading a book or practicing relaxation techniques.
3. Establish a Sleep Routine: Prioritize sleep by creating a consistent sleep schedule. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to sleep, such as dimming the lights and engaging in relaxing activities.
4. Optimize Light Exposure: During the day, seek natural sunlight exposure to help regulate your circadian rhythms. In the evening, reduce exposure to bright lights and blue light from screens to promote melatonin production and improve sleep quality.
   

   Conclusion
   

   The concept of evolutionary incongruence highlights the importance of aligning our modern lifestyles with our biological needs. By addressing factors such as seasonal eating, artificial light exposure, and sleep patterns, we can improve our health and reduce the risk of disease. Embracing these changes can lead to a more balanced and healthier life, allowing us to thrive in a rapidly changing world. As we continue to navigate the challenges of modern life, it is crucial to remember the wisdom of our evolutionary past and make choices that honor our biological heritage.

Evolutional incongruence is a leading cause of disease and ill health.

Things like

• Eating foods out of season
• Bright lights and screens after sunset
• Sleeping when the sun is out/being awake when the sun is down

Are making us overweight and sick.

— Ashley Richmond (@_AshleyRichmond) June 4, 2025

Evolutional Incongruence is a Leading Cause of Disease and Ill Health

Have you ever felt that nagging sense that something about modern life just doesn’t sit right? You’re not alone. The concept of evolutional incongruence suggests that many of the health problems we face today are due to a disconnect between our biological makeup and the lifestyle choices we make. In simpler terms, our bodies are still wired for the ancestral environment in which we evolved, but we often live in a world that’s vastly different. This disconnect can lead to a myriad of health issues, including obesity, sleep disorders, and chronic diseases. Let’s dive into some specific factors that contribute to this phenomenon.

Eating Foods Out of Season

When was the last time you thought about the seasonality of your food? If you’re like most people, you probably grab whatever is available at the store, regardless of whether it’s in season. But this practice can be problematic. Eating foods out of season can disrupt your body’s natural rhythms and contribute to health issues. Fruits and vegetables have peak seasons for a reason—this is when they are most nutritious and beneficial for our bodies.

Seasonal eating aligns with our evolutionary biology. Our ancestors consumed foods that were fresh and locally available, which varied throughout the year. By eating seasonal foods, we can better support our bodies’ needs. For example, in winter, our bodies might crave heartier foods rich in fats and proteins, while summer might call for lighter, hydrating fruits and veggies. Embracing seasonal eating can aid digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and even improve your mood. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of seasonal eating, check out this [article on seasonal nutrition](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/seasonal-eating).

Bright Lights and Screens After Sunset

Another major player in the evolutional incongruence game is our exposure to bright lights and screens after sunset. How many times have you found yourself scrolling through your phone or binge-watching your favorite series late into the night? This behavior can wreak havoc on our circadian rhythms, the internal clock that governs our sleep-wake cycles. Our ancestors operated on a natural schedule dictated by the sun, waking with the dawn and sleeping after sunset.

When we expose ourselves to blue light from screens late at night, it sends signals to our brains that it’s still daytime, disrupting the production of melatonin—the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. This can lead to sleep deprivation, increased stress levels, and a higher risk of various health conditions, including obesity and diabetes. To counteract this, consider implementing a digital curfew. Aim to turn off electronic devices an hour or two before bed. Embracing a more natural sleep environment can significantly improve your health. If you want to learn more about the effects of blue light on sleep, read this insightful [article on sleep hygiene](https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/blue-light-and-sleep).

Sleeping When the Sun is Out/Being Awake When the Sun is Down

Let’s talk about sleep. It’s no secret that getting enough quality sleep is crucial for overall health. Yet, many people struggle with this due to our modern lifestyles. We often find ourselves sleeping when the sun is out and being awake when it’s dark outside. This misalignment with nature can lead to a host of health problems.

Our ancestors would have naturally gone to sleep shortly after sunset and risen with the dawn. This rhythm helped regulate hormones and maintain energy levels throughout the day. When we break this cycle, it can lead to disturbances in metabolism, increased cortisol levels, and ultimately, weight gain. A study published in the journal *Sleep* noted that people who have irregular sleep patterns are more likely to be overweight or obese. So, if you find yourself burning the midnight oil or working night shifts, it might be time to reevaluate your sleep habits. To dive deeper into the importance of sleep, check out this [comprehensive guide on sleep and health](https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/why-do-we-need-sleep).

Are Making Us Overweight and Sick

The culmination of these factors—eating foods out of season, exposure to bright lights after dark, and poor sleep patterns—can contribute to a society plagued by obesity and chronic illness. The modern lifestyle has created an environment that often goes against our evolutionary biology, leading to significant health consequences. Addressing these issues is not just about personal choices; it’s about understanding how our lifestyle impacts our well-being.

To combat these health issues, consider making small, sustainable changes. Start by paying attention to the foods you eat and try to incorporate more seasonal options into your diet. Limit screen time in the evening to allow your body to wind down naturally. And prioritize sleep by creating a bedtime routine that aligns with the natural rhythms of day and night.

Conclusion

Understanding evolutional incongruence can empower us to make better lifestyle choices that align with our biology. By being more mindful of what we eat, how we light our environments, and when we sleep, we can take substantial steps towards improving our health and well-being. The journey to better health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, stay consistent, and watch how these changes can positively impact your life!

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This article touches on key aspects of evolutional incongruence and provides actionable advice for readers to improve their health in alignment with their biological needs.

Evolutional incongruence is a leading cause of disease and ill health.

Things like

• Eating foods out of season
• Bright lights and screens after sunset
• Sleeping when the sun is out/being awake when the sun is down

Are making us overweight and sick.