A doctor has taken to TikTok to say that people should not be on a device before bed for a little-known reason. Doctor Bing said that it can actually affect your brain and increase your risk of Alzheimer’s.
The common habit of scrolling is something common and most people – no matter our age – are guilty of. The expert said that scrolling on your phone after midnight isn’t ideal as it can of course led to you sleeping later, but this is only part of it.
Talking about the light from your device and how it related to Alzheimer’s, the expert says: “The light from your phone and the content you consume interferes with your natural sleep-wake cycle. The screen that you’re looking at right now emits blue light which suppresses the production of melatonin and melatonin as the hormone signals your brain that it’s time to wind down and go to sleep.”
He continues: “Studies have shown even brief exposure to blue light at night can delay melatonin release which makes it harder to fall asleep and reduces overall sleep quality. And overtime, this can lead to chronic sleep deprivation.
“But it’s not just the light, it’s also the content that you’re engaging with on your phone. It could be a heated comment thread or shocking news or exciting videos, all of which stimulate your brain and keeps it alert at a time when it should be relaxing.
“This hyperarousal activates your sympathetic nervous system – or what we call fight or flight system which raises your heart rate and stress hormones making even harder to transition into a restful sleep.”
Dr Bing says because of this, you should never “underestimate the effects that poor sleep has on your brain, especially if you’re young”. This is because “over time, things add up.
“It impairs your ability to consolidate memories, weakens your attention span and lowers your problem-solving skills. Sleep is also when your brain clears all toxins including beta amyloid – a protein which is linked to Alzheimer’s disease.”
He said these toxins can build up, “potentially increasing your chances of cognitive decline in the future. To help with this, put your phone away at least an hour before bed and try to create a better routine that doesn’t involve screens like reading a book.”
According to Alzheimer’s Society: “1 in 3 people born in the UK today will be diagnosed with dementia in their lifetime.” If you are affected by dementia, worried about a diagnosis or are a carer, trained staff from the Alzheimer’s Society are here to give you the support you need.
You can call them on 0333 150 3456. Their opening hours are:
Get email updates with the day’s biggest stories
