Sleeping Before the Screen: Habitual TV Viewing Linked to Disrupted Sleep, Health Risks
ROME – A growing body of research highlights the detrimental effects of falling asleep while watching television, extending beyond simple grogginess to long-term disruptions of the body’s natural rhythms and increased health risks. Experts warn that consistent television viewing before bed can alter the circadian rhythm, impacting sleep quality and overall well-being.
The habit exposes individuals to prolonged periods of blue light emitted from screens, interfering with the brain’s production of melatonin – a crucial hormone regulating the sleep-wake cycle. This interference frequently enough leads to difficulty falling asleep in a conventional bed setting and frequent nighttime awakenings.
Beyond sleep quality, studies indicate that fragmented sleep negatively impacts daytime memory and concentration. Insufficient rest is also correlated with a heightened risk of cardiovascular problems and metabolic disorders, including hypertension, elevated blood sugar levels, and weight gain, due to the impact on hormones controlling appetite.
To mitigate these risks, sleep specialists recommend establishing a consistent evening routine with a fixed bedtime. Limiting television use at least 30 minutes before sleep and substituting it with relaxing activities like reading, listening to calming music, or practicing breathing exercises is advised. Utilizing automatic shutdown timers on televisions can also prevent prolonged exposure to stimulating light.
Creating a bedroom environment dedicated solely to rest – free from televisions and other electronic devices – is considered one of the most effective strategies for promoting restorative sleep.
Maintaining healthy sleep habits is crucial for overall health, and experts emphasize that prioritizing sleep over the convenience of television viewing is a vital daily choice with important long-term benefits. Further information on sleep hygiene can be found here.
