Putting Your Brain At Risk: The Dangers of Overusing Your Smartphone
Introduction
As one enters into their late 20s, daily routines often become a chore. For a regular working adult, work will be dominating most of the time of the week. Due to this stressful environment, smartphones are a common coping mechanism for distraction and escaping the realities of adulting. Many people spend so much time on their devices that, sometimes they become addicted to them. Recent studies show that working people spend an average of about 3-4 hours a day on their smartphones. [1] People cannot seem to live without their smartphones, with over 80% of people checking their devices within the first 15 minutes of waking up. These habits of being over reliant on smartphones can lead to significant brain health issues. [2]
Screen time and Attention Span
The constant consumption of viewing short videos can severely shorten attention spans. Research shows that frequent social media use diminishes our ability to focus on tasks that require sustained attention. In fact, according to a new study from Microsoft Corp., attention spans have decreased from 12 seconds in 2000 to just 8 seconds today, even shorter than a goldfish’s. [3] This reduced focus can affect cognitive performance and productivity in various aspects of our lives.
To counteract this, individuals should set specific times for social media use. Taking regular breaks from screen time to engage in activities that require longer periods of concentration will improve attention.
Mindless Eating and Poor Digestion
Using phones during meal times often leads to mindless eating. Mindless eating negatively impacts digestion and nutrient absorption. Studies indicate that distracted eating can result in consuming up to 30% more calories, leading to long-term issues like weight gain and poor digestive health. [4] Weight gain and poor digestive health have been found to be linked to impaired cognitive function. The brain requires a steady supply of nutrients, and poor eating habits can disrupt this balance of essential nutrients. Practising mindful eating by setting phones aside during meal times to focus on eating can significantly improve digestion and cognitive health.
Sedentary Lifestyle and Cardiovascular risks
Excessive phone use often results in a sedentary lifestyle, which is detrimental to both cognitive function and physical health. A study shows that when comparing the longest sedentary time to the shortest sedentary time, there is a 147% increase in relative risk in cardiovascular events. [5] Moreover, physical inactivity has been linked to impaired cognitive abilities, leading to decreased productivity for daily life and work. [6]
Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy brain as it promotes blood flow to the brain causing a release of endorphins which are feel good chemicals. Individuals should aim to incorporate physical activities into their daily routines, such as taking short walks during work breaks.
Maintaining Optimal Brain Function
"Maintaining brain agility is essential for a vibrant and fulfilling life. Our cognitive abilities, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, play a crucial role in our overall well-being and quality of life," says Dr. Eugene Loke, 1doc Medical Director & Family Physician.
"On this World Brain Day, let's commit to nurturing our minds through continuous learning, engaging in mental challenges, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Activities such as reading, puzzles, social interaction, and regular physical exercise can significantly enhance our brain function. Our brains are our most powerful tools – let's invest in keeping them sharp, resilient, and ready to tackle the complexities of everyday life."
The Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS) by Neurowyzr is a digital medical assessment that screens for early brain decline. It assesses attention, immediate memory, working memory, and brain executive function.
The DBFS can be accessed simply with a web browser and a stable internet connection. It can be prescribed by a doctor or accessed through a health screening process, and it can be done either at the clinic or in the comfort of home.
Conclusion:
Smartphone usage poses significant risks to our brain health. To combat harmful effects of short attention spans, mindless eating and a sedentary lifestyle, it is crucial to set limits on smartphone usage and engage in regular physical activities.
Feeling more forgetful lately?
Taking proactive steps towards maintaining brain health is essential. Scheduling an annual Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS) with 1doc doctors can help identify early signs of cognitive decline and provide personalised recommendations to enhance brain function. Don't wait for symptoms to worsen — schedule your DBFS appointment via the 1doc app today and take control of your brain health.
Learn more about the DBFS and how to book an appointment at: 1doc.sg/digital-brain-function-screen!
References
Exposure to urban and rural contexts shapes smartphone usage behavior (PNAS Nexus, 2023)
Neophytou, E., Manwell, L.A. & Eikelboom, R. Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Neurodevelopment, Learning, Memory, Mental Health, and Neurodegeneration: a Scoping Review. Int J Ment Health Addiction 19, 724–744 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-019-00182-2
Falck RS, Davis JC, Liu-Ambrose T. What is the association between sedentary behaviour and cognitive function? A systematic review. Br J Sports Med. 2017 May;51(10):800-811. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2015-095551. Epub 2016 May 6. PMID: 27153869.
Written by:
Li Hanyu & Soo See Ann
Neurowyzr
www.neurowyzr.com
10 July 2024
About Neurowyzr
Neurowyzr is a Deep Neuroscience company based in Singapore using the latest discoveries in neuroscience to optimise population brain health. With a digital neuroscience platform, their goal is to improve quality of life by slowing down brain decline through early detection, therapy and monitoring. Their solutions include the Digital Brain Function Screen (DBFS).
