In an age where mobile technology has taken over, it can be difficult to set boundaries for using your mobile device. We’re all guilty of checking our phones at night, or even reading on them before bed, but doing so is bad for your eyes and can have other serious health implications as well. 

Limiting your screen time at night can help you sleep better and keep your eyes healthy, but it may also help reduce your risk of other weight gain, heart disease, some cancers, memory problems.

Here are just a few reasons why you should limit your screen time at night. Using your phone before bed…

• May cause early cataracts. Some eye doctors believe an increase in cataract cases among younger adults may to be linked to the use of digital devices.
• Could lead to macular degeneration. Digital devices emit a blue light emitted, which can damage the retina and cause macular degeneration.
• Makes you less alert during the day. Poor sleep at night means will be less alert and sleepier during the day.
• Can cause weight gain. Poor sleep habits can slow your metabolism. Without adequate sleep, you’ll also find it harder to control cravings.
• Can lead to diabetes and/or heart disease. If poor sleep quality can cause obesity, it can also lead diabetes and cardiovascular disease, as well as other health problems.
• May increase risk of some cancers. Using your digital device before bed reduces production of the sleep hormone melatonin. Chronic melatonin suppression may increase risk of some cancers including breast and prostate cancer.
• Causes attention and memory problems. Poor sleep results in an inability to focus during the day and can even cause memory problems. To prevent attention and memory problems from lack of sleep, turn your phone off at least an hour before bed.
• May be linked to depression. Research suggests that suppressed melatonin can also lead to depression.

At least an hour before going to bed at night, turn off all digital devices, including your TV, phone, and tablet. If you need to wind down or want to read before bed, pick up a book instead.