From screen time to waistline: The link between excessive use of technology and weight gain – experts explain

In today’s digital age, technology has become an integral part of our lives, revolutionizing the way we communicate, work and be entertained. However, the convenience and allure of technology comes at the cost of our physical well-being. With the rise of smartphones, tablets and laptops, people of all ages are spending more time glued to screens, be it for work or leisure.

This prolonged sedentary behavior has become a prevalent issue, causing many health problems including obesity. Several studies have highlighted the link between excessive screen time and weight gain, prompting health experts to raise awareness of the potential dangers.

The sedentary nature of technology use significantly reduces physical activity levels. Instead of engaging in active activities such as outdoor sports or physical exercise, individuals find themselves absorbed in the virtual world, and neglect the importance of movement. Furthermore, prolonged screen time often leads to mindless snacking and poor dietary choices, as users are easily distracted and may consume unhealthy foods without thinking. Are.

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Several factors contribute to the association between excessive use of technology and weight gain. Ms. Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head – South Zone, Dietetics & Nutrition, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket explains how excessive technology use and weight gain are related.

Lifestyle diseases due to weight gain

Dr. Samaddar explains, “The higher the waistline, the higher the chances of lifestyle diseases like diabetes, heart disease and fatty liver. An increased waistline means an increase in visceral fat or belly fat, which leads to insulin resistance and all lifestyle related diseases. Measuring waist circumference helps assess health risk related to obesity.”

She adds, even at a healthy weight, excess fat around the waist can increase the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. A bowel above 80 cm (32 in) in women and 90 cm (36 in) in men is considered high and is a sign of abdominal obesity.

Exercise and healthy eating are the cornerstones of maintaining a healthy weight and reducing your waistline.

How are technology and health related?

Dr. Samaddar explains, “Technology has revolutionized the world, but that revolution did not come without a cost. We all are paying the price for this in terms of our health. Screen time (watching TV, mobile phone use, computer use, playing video games, etc.) has increased, energy expenditure has decreased as people are not moving as much and have become couch potatoes and/or available snack Are consuming more processed foods. Everyone has played a role at the click of a button.”

He further added, “Technology overuse or addiction can also affect mental health, leading to reduced sleep, less social interaction and a lot of stress and anxiety in our lives. There are many negative consequences of excessive use of technology. Use of technology apart from making us feel isolated can lead to sedentary lifestyle, disturbed sleep patterns, wrong postures and problems like back pain. However, anyone can use technology to slim their waistline by using apps to track calories, stay hydrated, and count daily steps.