Screen time might be shrinking your brain
Jan 24, 2026, 12:00 PM | Updated: Jan 26, 2026, 11:04 am
So, this is one of the many reasons that I try to limit screen time in my home. The only thing is that I do it more for the girls and less for myself! Now is a time to consider doing it for the whole household.
Americans are spending an average of seven hours a day on screens, which could have negative cognitive effects. Excessive screen time has been linked to decreased grey matter, which is essential for information processing in the brain.
Additionally, too much screen time can also reduce white matter, affecting communication between brain regions. Studies suggest a possible link between screen time and early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, decreased IQ and mental illness.
To reduce screen time, consider limiting social media use or switching to a basic phone to protect cognitive health.
Every little bit helps, and this seems like an easy way to be “healthier” in the new year.
