The Shocking Science of Light: Unlocking Energy, Metabolism & Longevity | Matt Maruca

In this episode of The Art of Being Well, I sit down with Matt Maruca—entrepreneur, health researcher, and founder of Ra Optics—to discuss the critical role light plays in our health. After struggling with chronic health issues as a teenager, Matt discovered the science of mitochondria and circadian rhythms, leading him to create the world’s most effective blue light protection glasses. We dive into how artificial light disrupts sleep, energy, and longevity, why sunrise exposure and red light therapy are game-changers, and the simple daily habits that can transform your health. If you’ve ever wondered how light affects your body beyond just vision, this episode is a must-listen!

Matt Maruca is the founder & CEO of Ra Optics, the leader in premium blue light protection eyewear. Matt founded Ra Optics after a decade-long journey to improve his own chronic health issues as a child and teenager. On his search, Matt became fascinated by the research on the important role that nutrition plays in our health. As he looked further, he came across the science of mitochondria, circadian rhythms, and how light influences these factors—playing an essential, but overlooked, role in our health and well-being.

He became fascinated by entrepreneurship, and decided that he could use the information that helped him to help others. He became aware of a gap in the market for blue light protection glasses which both (a) filter out the correct wavelengths of light based on scientific research, and (b) are high-quality, attractive, and truly enjoyable to wear.

A few of my favorite things we cover in this episode: 

•   How struggling with gut issues, allergies, and migraines as a teen led Matt to take his health into his own hands.
• The breakthrough moment and how discovering mitochondria and circadian rhythms changed his approach to wellness.
• What is biophysics? Understanding the science of light and its impact on health.
• The different wavelengths of light—how natural and artificial light affect the body throughout the day.
• What led Matt to create Ra Optics, and how his blue light blocking glasses stand out from the rest.
• How to properly use blue light protection glasses to maximize benefits for eye health, sleep, and overall wellness.
• The most important things anyone can do to optimize health using the science of light—sunrise exposure, meal timing, sunbathing, blue light protection, red light therapy, and sleep habits.
• How Ra Optics became the go-to blue light protection for so many well-known figures.

Links to things we talked about in this episode: 

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• Visit www.neuromastersacadey.com to access a free masterclass on Neurohacking and start transforming your mind & as a result even your body today.
• Right now, you get an amazing 20% off, or if you choose their already discounted subscription, you get almost a third off the price! Only available when you visit my exclusive URL Puori.com/WILLCOLE and use my promo code WILLCOLE. Or save 20% off when you make a one-time purchase – still such great savings.

Happy listening and we hope you learned a little bit more on the art of being well!

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In Health,

Dr. Will Cole