We have all had a little traveling companion always with us for a while now. A device that allows us to be connected to the world, informed, entertained and closer to loved ones. Now imagine that this companion, in exchange for our attention, "injects" constant physical inflammation into our body, as if we were constantly exposed to toxic agents.
I'm not talking about the psychological damage from the use of social media (from trough to the dysmorphophobia passing through the anxiety of “doomscrolling”). I'm talking about serious physical damage.
Social media is literally toxic
It almost seems like the plot of a dystopian novel, yet it is the reality that emerges from a recent study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (I link it here). The research, conducted by a team of scientists from the University of Buffalo, has in fact highlighted a direct correlation between prolonged use of social media and increased levels of inflammation in the body.
But we proceed with order. As we well know, inflammation is a natural process of the immune system that protects us from external aggressions and promotes healing. However, when this process becomes chronic, it can turn into a real sword of Damocles, increasing the risk of developing various pathologies, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and mental disorders.
A systematic review
The University at Buffalo got involved a group of 171 young adults, monitoring their use of social media (Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter) through a specific app and measuring inflammation levels via a blood test. The results were unequivocal: those who spent more time on social media had significantly greater inflammation than those who used it moderately.
This study adds to the growing body of evidence pointing to the risks of spending too much time on social media and related fields
David Lee, University at Buffalo, first author of the research.
I want to stress that this is not a witch hunt against social media (although I seriously think it's toxic too). These tools, if used consciously, can represent a resource for our social and professional life. As with any other activity, moderation is key.
So what to do?
Here are some tips to reduce the negative impact of toxic social media on our health:
- Limit the time spent online. Set daily limits and stick to them.
- Take regular breaks. Every 20-30 minutes, look up from the screen and give yourself a break for a few minutes to rest your eyes and mind.
- Choose the contents you follow carefully. Avoid following profiles that generate stress or anxiety and opt for content that inspires you and makes you feel good.
- Cultivate relationships offline. Make time for loved ones and activities you enjoy in real life.
Silent inflammation is a sneaky enemy, but with a bit of awareness and attention we can keep it under control. Health is the most precious asset we have, and it is worth protecting it even from a "friend" who is always close to us: only in this way can we prevent it from becoming our worst enemy, or our killer.
