Globally, nearly 7 billion smartphones exist. In developed nations, almost 75% of the population owns one. These devices have revolutionized the world, giving people instant access to goods, services, friends, and family. They also serve as constant entertainment for some because they can stream endless content and allow for 24/7 video game playing. They are so intriguing that their owners find it hard to put them down, even while eating.
Constantly using your smartphone can be rude and unproductive, but it can also adversely affect your health, especially when you use it while you eat. Below are five concrete ways your health will improve if you put down the phone during meal times.
1- Assists in Weight Maintenance
Eating while watching any screen can affect the number of calories you ingest. Eating while distracted causes you to be unaware of exactly what you’ve eaten. Nutritional experts have found this practice can raise your calorie intact by 15% leading to significant weight gain. If you put down your cell phone while eating, you can expect to see improved weight maintenance.
2- Reduces the Risk of Tech Neck
Eating while using the phone is hard on your neck. It leads to unhealthy hunching, which can cause neck pain and poor posture. Tech neck, as it is called, can cause the following symptoms:
- Neck pain
- Indigestion, reflux, and incontinence
- Impaired blood circulation
- Headaches
- Eye strain
- Hand and thumb issues
Putting the phone down when you eat can lessen these harmful effects.
3- Helps With Sleep Habits
Smartphones give off blue light that can limit your ability to produce melatonin, a sleep-regulating hormone. Too much phone use can lead to insomnia, which causes a number of health issues. People who get enough sleep are more productive, less prone to depression, and relate better to others.
4- Aids in Digestion
You should be relaxed and even meditative when you eat to aid in digestion. Healthy digestion means you are less likely to experience excess stomach acid, elimination issues, and stomach pain. Although playing Dead Space while eating a burger may be entertaining, it’s not good for your digestive health. Savoring your food is a healthier choice.
5- Boosts Social Life
Meals are meant to be a stress-free and enjoyable period during the day. They are also a great time to socialize with friends. Those who are on their phones while eating miss these chances to talk to others. As a result, they can become socially isolated, a condition that can cause mental and physical issues. When you turn off your phone while eating, you are taking a big step toward improved health.
When you are eating, it’s best to be relaxed and distraction-free. Your digestion, posture, sleep, and weight will benefit. In addition, you are less likely to become socially isolated. Smartphones are wonderful devices, but only when used in moderation.
To safeguard your health, make it a rule not to use your phone while you eat. If possible, turn it off completely. Enforce the rule with your family members. You should see positive results quickly.