In this blog post I share some tips for how to reduce EMF exposure with a new iPhone.
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As I discuss in this post, Electromagnetic Frequency (EMF) exposure is a major contributor to MCAS. EMFs can also exacerbate MCAS symptoms, making them more severe.
I learned recently that the 5G radio frequency (RF) which is compatible with newer cell phones is more dangerous because it has a shorter but more potent wavelength. This post discusses concerns about 5G for those with MCAS and ways to mitigate the effects of 5G RF.
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a chronic condition that affects all organ systems. It can cause severe, disabling symptoms every day, including potentially fatal anaphylaxis. MCAS often occurs with other chronic conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Managing MCAS is challenging because many healthcare providers are unaware of it, and diagnostic tests can be unreliable. Treatments involve using antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and avoiding triggers. Check out this post on how to manage MCAS.
If you have Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), you might be concerned about 5G and electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure because some people with MCAS report that EMFs can trigger or worsen their symptoms. Here’s why some MCAS patients are cautious:
1. Mast Cells and EMFs
Mast cells are hyperresponsive in MCAS, releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Some studies suggest that EMFs may influence mast cell activity, potentially increasing histamine release and worsening symptoms like:
2. EMFs and Inflammation
EMFs, including those from 5G, have been hypothesized to contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation. Since MCAS is already an inflammatory condition, some people fear that prolonged EMF exposure could exacerbate their symptoms.
3. Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS)
Some people with MCAS also report Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS)—a condition where exposure to EMFs leads to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or sleep disturbances. Some individuals with MCAS find that reducing EMF exposure helps alleviate symptoms.
4. Individual Sensitivity
Not everyone with MCAS will react to EMFs, but given that MCAS symptoms vary widely among individuals, some people might be more susceptible than others.
If you don’t want to be exposed to more electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs) with 5G, you can choose not to upgrade your Credo Wireless phone to 5G, here’s what could happen:
1. Your Current 4G/LTE Phone Will Still Work (For Now). Many cell phone networks still support 4G LTE service so you’ll continue to have calls, texts, and data access where 4G is available. However, as networks expand 5G, some 4G towers may be repurposed over time, leading to potentially weaker service or slower data speeds in certain areas.
2. Potential Risks of Not Upgrading. Some networks are phasing out 4G, and htough many are not shutting down 4G yet, older network technologies eventually get deprioritized. You may experience limited cell coverage in the future as carriers are focusing on 5G expansion, meaning fewer new towers are being built and maintained for 4G LTE, which could reduce reliability over time. You may encounter possible device incompatibility if your cell phone carrier stops activating non-5G phones, so getting a replacement for a lost or broken device may become difficult.
So, how can you minimize the effects of EMF exposure without compromising your cell service. If avoiding higher-frequency 5G is your goal, here are some alternatives:
• Stick to 4G LTE for as long as possible while you keep using your existing device.
• Use a 4G LTE-only phone – Some newer phones (e.g., Light Phone 2, Punkt MP02) don’t support 5G but still work on modern networks.
• Turn off data when not inuUse – Using airplane mode or wired internet reduces EMF exposure.
• Use a wired headset or speakerphone to keep the phone farther from your body.
What are the EMF exposure differences between 4G and 5G?
If you want to reduce EMF exposure, avoiding mmWave 5G (24+ GHz) makes the biggest difference.
Here is how you can reduce RF exposure from your iPhone. These instructions are based on an iPhone 13, so if you have a different model or an Android phone, you may need to Google how to do it with your specific phone.
To set your iPhone 13 to 4G LTE only (and disable 5G), follow these steps:
1. Change Cellular Settings to LTE Only
1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
2. Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions).
3. Select Cellular Data Options.
4. Tap Voice & Data.
5. Choose LTE (instead of “5G Auto” or “5G On”)
The bucket theory simplifies understanding symptom reactions with MCAS. Imagine your body as an empty bucket you don’t want to overflow. Reactions to various stimuli fill the histamine bucket at different rates, forming the total histamine level (how full your bucket is). More histamine means more symptoms. By managing triggers, reducing exposures, and taking medications and supplements, you can control your bucket’s level.
Knowing your symptom progression in a symptom flare is the key to developing your rescue plan. This post discusses how to recognize your symptom progression so you can be prepared to address those symptoms.
Want a tool to easily keep track of your symptoms? Sign up for my newsletter and you will receive my free 50-page ebook of lower-histamine, grain-free, sugar-free recipes, my free symptom log, and a free two-week meal plan!
The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a listening therapy based on Polyvagal Theory that helps heal nervous system regulation. Many people with MCAS have nervous system dysregulation stemming from infections, toxic exposures, concussions, and trauma. The SSP is an easy-to-use app where you listen to specially filtered music for 30 minutes each day for a 5-hour cycle. Studies show the SSP has a profound effect on mental health and chronic conditions
You can sign up for the SSP here!
Rocks and Roots chronicles my journey solo backpacking the Superior Hiking Trail and overcoming nervous system dysregulation, gut dysbiosis, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome symptoms to hike 328 miles successfully.
Healy is an individualized microcurrent device I use to reduce inflammation. Check out this post for more about Healy.
I provide one-on-one in-person and remote chronic illness and caregiver coaching and Sacred Self-Healing Sessions based on the Sacred Self-Healing Method, a proven novel co-creative healing modality detailed in my Books.
Click here for more information.
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The preceding material does not constitute medical advice. This information is for information purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, cure or treatment. Always seek advice from your medical doctor.
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