SAN ANTONIO – Some manufactureers claim that LED light bulbs have the ability to change a person's mood. But is it true?
LED bulbs can do a lot of new tricks, such as the LIFX bulb, which changes colors.
The Definity Digital Good Night LED bulb is supposed to improve your natural sleep, because it emits less blue light than other LEDs
Consumer Reports checked them out and it found out the Good Night bulb does have lower levels of blue light than other bulbs. But you may lose sleep over the price, $70.
"Try a CFL. It costs a lot less than an LED and it gives off a lot less blue light," Consumer Reports' Kimberly Janeway said.
Consumer Reports recommends Walmart's Great Value Soft White 60 watt replacement CFL at just over $1 per bulb.
As for the Awake & Alert bulb, also $70, it claims more blue light for improved alertness. Tests found it does deliver higher blue light levels, but the light isn't all that flattering.
The LIFX bulb connect to WiFi and can be controlled by a smartphone. It changes color and even has a strobe setting. It retails for $99.
Consumer Reports said the Cree A19 white dimmable LED does the same thing as the LIFX bulb, and costs $8.50.
If you have trouble sleeping, health experts suggest turning off all sources of blue light several hours before you go to bed, meaning smartphones, tablets, computers and TVs.