5 Shocking Ways Your Cell Phone Is Hurting Your Health

Poor Sleep Health

The problem: You should know by now that using gadgets with bright screens before bed makes it harder to fall asleep. Exposure to artificial light before going to bed can suppress your brain's ability to release melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. Losing sleep can lead to all sorts of health problems, including depression, weight gain, and even some serious diseases. But a study done by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) found that 95 percent of people still use some type of electronic device in the hour before bed.

The solution: Follow through and take sleep more seriously than your gadgets. Scientists involved with the NSF study recommend doing "wind down activities" before bed, like reading a book or relaxing without electronics. Sure, it's tempting to check your phone, but don't use it for more than a couple minutes. Browsing Instagram photos, checking Facebook, and reading e-mails can wait until morning.