Research from Arizona University has linked high screen time to the worst diet patterns and unhealthiest habits.
The study followed 900 adults that owned one television and at least one other screen. This could include phone, laptop or tablet, to see the link between screen time to health habits.
Most research on screen time has been on television viewing and did not include computers or mobile devices. This study included all screen time on multiple devices and their health effects. These included dietary habits, sleep duration and quality, perceived stress, self-rated health, physical activity and body mass index.
The results should not surprise anyone.
The highest “users” had the worst health habits.
Heavy users were those that spent at least 17.5 hours in front of a screen. These people had the poorest dietary habits and other health habits.
Researchers also looked at how different screens changed the health of the participants.
The heavy users of mobile phones had the poorest sleep habits. Binge-watchers, watching more than one episode of a show on any device, ate more fast food and more calories. Laptops users tend to spend less time in front of a screen and practiced better health habits. Maybe because laptops are used more for work purposes and not for entertainment.
Unplugged.
After the initial study, the researchers asked 10 of the participants to turn off all screens from the time they got off work until they went to bed for two weeks.
“Initial results suggest that people have to figure out what to do with this time, so they’re doing things like spending more face-to-face with family and friends, cooking and preparing food, being physically active and engaging in hobbies. Things that are fulfilling in physically healthful ways and mentally healthful ways that you don’t get when the majority of your day is engaged with screens.”
Chris Wharton, assistant dean of innovation and strategic initiatives at Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions
What you can do?
The best way to make a difference in your health? Spend less time in front of a screen. The chances are you will move more and eat better, simply because you have the time to look after yourself.
Change your mind, change your health,
Shayla
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