A Professor of Physiology at the University of Ilorin, Luqman Aribidesi Olayaki, has cautioned Nigerians against indiscriminate exposure to artificial light at night, excessive use of plastic household utensils and consumption of improperly processed cassava, warning that these could disrupt hormonal functions and undermine human health.
Olayaki, who gave the warning while delivering the 309th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Ilorin, explained that the human endocrine system, which regulates vital body functions through hormones, is vulnerable to environmental and lifestyle factors that interfere with the body’s internal communication network.
Speaking on the topic, “Needle in a Haystack: Quest for Solutions to a Compromised Body’s Wireless Communication System,” the professor highlighted how exposure to certain chemicals, unhealthy habits and environmental conditions could compromise hormonal balance, with consequences for metabolic, reproductive and general health.
He identified melatonin, a hormone produced mainly at night, as an important component of the body’s defence system, noting that exposure to artificial light at night suppresses its production and reduces its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
According to him, melatonin plays important roles in sleep regulation, reproduction and protection against oxidative damage, while its disruption has been associated with increased risks of obesity, depression, sleep disorders, diabetes, certain cancers and memory impairment.
He consequently advised Nigerians to minimise exposure to artificial light at night, stressing that maintaining darkness during sleeping hours remains one of the simplest and cheapest ways to support natural melatonin production.
The don also emphasised the importance of sunlight exposure for vitamin D production, describing it as essential for optimal body function, calcium absorption and healthy bones.
On household chemicals, Olayaki identified bisphenol-F, an organic chemical found in some plastics and other household materials, as a potential threat to thyroid function.
Citing his research, he explained that exposure to the chemical could increase thyroid-stimulating hormone levels while reducing the production of thyroxine and triiodothyronine, two hormones essential for regulating metabolism and other body processes.
He recommended reducing exposure to such chemicals by replacing plastic household utensils with stainless steel, metal or glass alternatives.
The professor further raised concerns about the consumption of improperly processed cassava, explaining that the crop contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release toxic substances capable of interfering with thyroid hormone levels when not adequately processed.
He noted that cassava remains a staple food across Africa and Latin America, making proper processing and increased public awareness particularly important.
Olayaki therefore called for greater publicity on the consumption of iodised salt, explaining that adequate iodine intake is essential for thyroid hormone production.
He also highlighted the need for further research into ways of reducing the toxic effects associated with cassava consumption.
Addressing the relationship between stress and hormonal health, the inaugural lecturer explained that while acute stress could enhance alertness and attention, prolonged stress could trigger the release of corticosteroids associated with metabolic disorders, suppressed immunity and infertility.
He cited his research findings showing that sleep deprivation and restraint increased cortisol levels and body weight in laboratory animals, highlighting the need to pay greater attention to healthy sleeping habits and stress management.
On reproductive health, Olayaki disclosed that his research had established the harmful effects of certain environmental toxins, diabetes and cannabis on the reproductive system.
He explained that lead exposure could impair the functions of the pituitary gland and gonads, reducing reproductive hormone levels, while cannabis consumption could suppress reproductive hormones, reduce sperm production and affect sexual function.
He, however, advocated stronger collaboration between researchers and law enforcement agencies to investigate the possible medical benefits of cannabis without overlooking its established health risks.
Beyond public health recommendations, the professor urged universities to strengthen collaboration between biomedical and clinical researchers to facilitate the translation of laboratory discoveries into practical medical applications.
He also called on university authorities to prioritise research funding for interdisciplinary projects and provide side laboratories for science-based lecturers, noting that laboratory conditions, including exposure to light and noise, could affect the quality of research findings.
He further urged governments to adopt appropriate street-lighting practices that direct illumination to necessary areas, warning that excessive artificial lighting at night could adversely affect humans and other animals.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Olayaki disclosed that September 3, 2026, marked 25 years of his service at the University of Ilorin, where he had built a career in physiology and endocrine research.
The inaugural lecture was the fourth from the Department of Physiology and the 309th in the history of the University of Ilorin.
