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Smart Phone Threat

Smart Phone Threat | Weekly Bulletins | Andrew Weil, M.D.
1 min

Researchers at Rice University haveĀ noted anĀ association between theĀ increased use of smart phones, tabletsĀ and other portable devices (media multitasking) with the growing rate of obesity. To investigateĀ theĀ connection, the studyĀ team recruited 132 young people between the ages of 18 and 23Ā and asked them toĀ respond to a questionnaire. The queries wereĀ designed toĀ determine their levels of media multitasking and measure the amount of theirĀ compulsive or inappropriate phone use, which the researchers likened to the urge to check your phone for messages while talking toĀ someone. ResultsĀ showed that higher scores on this test were associated with a higher body mass index and a greater percentage of body fat suggesting a possible link. The team followed up with another study during which 72 participants from the firstĀ investigationĀ underwentĀ MRI scans. This allowedĀ the researchers to measure brain activity while the individuals viewed a series of images,Ā including some of appetizing but fattening foods. Here the researchersĀ observedĀ increased activity in the part of the brain reflecting food temptation. Lead researcher Richard Lopez said that while the results are preliminary, they appear to suggest links between media multitasking and the risk for obesity.Ā 

Source:Ā 
Richard B. Lopez et al, ā€œMedia multitasking is associated with higher risk for obesity and increased responsiveness to rewarding food stimuli,ā€ Brain Imaging and Behavior, March 1, 2019,Ā doi: 10.1007/s11682-019-00056-0Ā Ā 

AlsoĀ in this week’s bulletin:Ā 

  • Move More & Live LongerĀ 
  • Partner Up To Quit SmokingĀ 
  • This Week’s Recipe:Ā Cashew Poblano Ranch DressingĀ 

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