You might be doing a daily habit that’s destroying your brain. Are you at risk?
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your health regimen.
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we often overlook the small habits that shape our daily routines.
But what if one of those seemingly innocuous habits was silently chipping away at the health of your brain?
This isn't a plot from a science fiction novel—it's a real concern brought to light by a Harvard University doctor who has a stark warning for us all.
Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist with a substantial following on social media, has become a trusted voice in the realm of health and wellness.
With over half a million followers hanging on his every word, Dr. Sethi's recent revelation about a common daily habit has caused quite a stir.
The culprit? Our smartphones.
How Scrolling is Scrambling Your Brain
In a video that has captured the attention of thousands, Dr. Sethi outlines the detrimental effects of excessive phone use on our brains.
It's a phenomenon that many of us are guilty of: the endless scrolling through social media feeds, news sites, and emails that consumes hours of our day.
Dr. Sethi warns that this constant engagement with our devices is flooding our brains with dopamine, the neurotransmitter often associated with pleasure and reward.
While dopamine itself isn't bad, the problem arises when we start craving the quick hits of satisfaction that scrolling provides. This can lead to a decreased ability to focus on tasks that require sustained attention, such as reading a book or solving complex problems.
Social Media's Isolating Effect
The second point Dr. Sethi raises is about oxytocin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in social bonding and feelings of closeness.
Ironically, while social media is designed to connect us, Dr. Sethi suggests that it may be doing the opposite. The constant exposure to the curated highlights of other people's lives can leave us feeling anxious, inadequate, and lonely.
Also read: Is drinking lots of water really healthy? A Harvard doctor reveals the truth
The Cost of Constant Connectivity
Lastly, Dr. Sethi addresses the issue of mental fatigue. The relentless barrage of information and the need to be perpetually connected can wear down our cognitive reserves.
To combat this, Dr. Sethi recommends engaging in offline activities that rejuvenate the mind, such as physical exercise or spending quality time with loved ones.
The comments section of Dr. Sethi's video became a testament to the challenge of breaking this habit, with users humorously admitting their difficulty in even focusing on his message without the urge to swipe away.
Beyond the Screen: Other Daily Habits to Reconsider
Dr. Sethi's insights don't stop at our digital habits. He also touches on other everyday practices that could be harming our health, such as wearing shoes indoors.
He cites research indicating that a staggering 96 percent of shoe soles harbor harmful bacteria, including E. coli, which can lead to serious infections. His advice? Leave your shoes at the door, especially in homes with young children.
As we navigate the digital age, we must be vigilant about the time we spend on our devices and the potential impact on our mental well-being.
Source: @doctorsethimd / Tiktok.
Here are some actionable steps to help protect your brain:
1. Set specific times for checking social media and stick to them.
2. Engage in activities that promote mindfulness, such as meditation or journaling.
3. Foster real-world connections by scheduling regular meetups with friends and family.
4. Create a “no shoes” policy in your home to keep it free from outside contaminants.
5. Regularly review your habits and make adjustments as needed for your mental health.
Read next: You’ve been breathing wrong this whole time—here’s what it could be doing to your health
Have you noticed a change in your focus or mood after reducing screen time? Do you have other daily habits that you've modified for the sake of your health? Share your insights in the comments below!
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we often overlook the small habits that shape our daily routines.
But what if one of those seemingly innocuous habits was silently chipping away at the health of your brain?
This isn't a plot from a science fiction novel—it's a real concern brought to light by a Harvard University doctor who has a stark warning for us all.
Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist with a substantial following on social media, has become a trusted voice in the realm of health and wellness.
With over half a million followers hanging on his every word, Dr. Sethi's recent revelation about a common daily habit has caused quite a stir.
The culprit? Our smartphones.
How Scrolling is Scrambling Your Brain
In a video that has captured the attention of thousands, Dr. Sethi outlines the detrimental effects of excessive phone use on our brains.
It's a phenomenon that many of us are guilty of: the endless scrolling through social media feeds, news sites, and emails that consumes hours of our day.
Harvard University doctor Dr. Saurabh Sethi warns that the overuse of smartphones can lead to dopamine overload, making it difficult to focus on tasks without instant gratification. Image source: Vardan Papikyan / Unsplash.
Dr. Sethi warns that this constant engagement with our devices is flooding our brains with dopamine, the neurotransmitter often associated with pleasure and reward.
While dopamine itself isn't bad, the problem arises when we start craving the quick hits of satisfaction that scrolling provides. This can lead to a decreased ability to focus on tasks that require sustained attention, such as reading a book or solving complex problems.
Social Media's Isolating Effect
The second point Dr. Sethi raises is about oxytocin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in social bonding and feelings of closeness.
Ironically, while social media is designed to connect us, Dr. Sethi suggests that it may be doing the opposite. The constant exposure to the curated highlights of other people's lives can leave us feeling anxious, inadequate, and lonely.
Also read: Is drinking lots of water really healthy? A Harvard doctor reveals the truth
The Cost of Constant Connectivity
Lastly, Dr. Sethi addresses the issue of mental fatigue. The relentless barrage of information and the need to be perpetually connected can wear down our cognitive reserves.
To combat this, Dr. Sethi recommends engaging in offline activities that rejuvenate the mind, such as physical exercise or spending quality time with loved ones.
The comments section of Dr. Sethi's video became a testament to the challenge of breaking this habit, with users humorously admitting their difficulty in even focusing on his message without the urge to swipe away.
Beyond the Screen: Other Daily Habits to Reconsider
Dr. Sethi's insights don't stop at our digital habits. He also touches on other everyday practices that could be harming our health, such as wearing shoes indoors.
He cites research indicating that a staggering 96 percent of shoe soles harbor harmful bacteria, including E. coli, which can lead to serious infections. His advice? Leave your shoes at the door, especially in homes with young children.
As we navigate the digital age, we must be vigilant about the time we spend on our devices and the potential impact on our mental well-being.
Source: @doctorsethimd / Tiktok.
Here are some actionable steps to help protect your brain:
1. Set specific times for checking social media and stick to them.
2. Engage in activities that promote mindfulness, such as meditation or journaling.
3. Foster real-world connections by scheduling regular meetups with friends and family.
4. Create a “no shoes” policy in your home to keep it free from outside contaminants.
5. Regularly review your habits and make adjustments as needed for your mental health.
Read next: You’ve been breathing wrong this whole time—here’s what it could be doing to your health
Have you noticed a change in your focus or mood after reducing screen time? Do you have other daily habits that you've modified for the sake of your health? Share your insights in the comments below!
