A study in mice found that light from phones or tablets at night causes cravings for sugar and can lead to weight gain.

The researchers found that only one hour of exposure to blue light (artificial light produced by technology) affects the appetite of mice and makes them more likely to eat unhealthy food the next day.

Blood sugar levels also rose, indicating that rodents were unable to process sugar in their bodies, a warning sign for the possibility of diabetes.

The results of the study are the latest in a series of compelling evidence against the use of smart phones at night, where scientists have said in the past that lead to obesity.

The Strasbourg study, in cooperation with the University of Amsterdam, was presented at the annual conference of the SSIB in Utrecht, the Netherlands.

The researchers, led by Ananasi Masis-Vargas, revealed that they introduced the mice to a blue light at night, and then recorded the next day.

Rodents were given the choice between four food sources: a nutritionally balanced meal, lard, local water, and plain water.

The study found that after mice were exposed to blue light, male rodents drank local water at a higher rate than on normal nights, without exposure to blue light.

Blue light has altered glucose uptake in male mice, as impaired glucose tolerance means that blood sugar levels rise above normal levels, a warning sign of diabetes.

Beware of using your phone before bedtime!

Evidence suggests that the use of the screen at night leads to rats eating sugary foods, which can not be properly treated.

The results are still under review

Previous research has shown a link between obesity and artificial light levels, which someone experiences at night.

She did not explain the biological mechanisms that lead to increased appetite, or glucose intolerance, but experts believe it is due to a change in hormones.

Retinal cells are sensitive to blue light and transmit information directly to brain regions, which regulate appetite and sleep.