Smartphone Users Said to be the New Couch Potatoes — Dave’s Diary

For those inclined to look for excuses, here’s one more for your collection. If you've gained a few pounds lately and can't figure out why, it's possible your smartphone is to blame.

“Hello Dr. Phil, Yes I can hold…….Dr. Phil!  Dr. Phil, it’s not me…it’s my phone!”

Huh? Smartphone users are the new couch potatoes. Using a smartphone a lot like watching television in that it can significantly decrease your levels of physical activity and fitness, according to researchers from Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.

"Using a cell phone doesn't have the same kind of negative stigma that sitting on the couch and watching TV has, but it can be just as bad for you," study co-author Jacob Barkley told HealthDay News. On average, the students spent almost five hours a day on their smartphones, including sending hundreds of text messages. Those who spent the most time on their phones -- up to 14 hours a day -- were less fit than those who averaged about 1.5 hours of use daily.

Heavy smartphone users also reported engaging in more sedentary activities, such as watching TV and movies, using a computer and playing video games, than those who used their phones less.

So, as Dr. Phil might say, “waddle on over and tell me how that living-on-the-smart-phone-thing is working out for you.”