The Effects of Technology on Your Health

It’s easy to use voice activation to set calendar reminders. It’s relaxing to veg out on the couch while streaming Netflix. But the hours of screen time in today’s technologically-driven world can have some negative effects on your health if you’re not careful. Understanding these issues is the first step toward combatting them.

Inactivity

Playing video games or watching movies for hours on end keeps your body in a sedentary position, which is only made worse if you have a habit of munching on junk food while in front of the TV. This behavior can quickly lead to weight gain and other health issues. The key is moderation. TV can be a great way to unwind in the evening, but make sure you also get some physical activity each day. That may mean hitting the gym, or even strolling around the neighborhood with your dog. Active play is extremely important for children’s development, making it even more crucial to limit their screen time in favor of more physical activity.

Sleep

Training your eyes on a backlit screen or monitor before bed can actually influence the melatonin levels in your brain. What does this mean? Screen time late at night can make it more difficult for you to fall and stay asleep. Try to put up all devices at least 30 minutes before going to sleep to promote better rest.

Emotional

Humans are social beings at their core. Spending hours at home in front of a TV screen can lead to depressive tendencies, anxiety and antisocial behavior. This is especially important for children and young adults who need to spend time with others to learn social skills, which apply directly to the ability to get and keep a job later in life.

Eyes

Excessive screen time can cause eyestrain, which can lead to problems with your eyesight. This is especially true of individuals with desk jobs who stare at computer monitors all day. Be sure to look away for at least a full minute every half hour to let your eyes rest a bit.

Technology is an integral piece of our lives, there’s no denying it. But setting limits—such as no more than two hours of screen time per day (with the exception of work)—can help you live a healthier lifestyle.

Your health and wellness is our priority. Call Heritage Insurance & Real Estate at (515) 386-2728 for more information on Jefferson health insurance.