Considering a binge-watching session? Discover potential health issues linked to extended TV viewing, including blood clot risks, plus tips and studies on how to balance screen time with self-care.
Ever caught yourself glued to the screen, watching “just one more” episode? We all do it, but have you ever paused to consider what that binge-watching sesh *really* does to you?
We’re going to break it all down, um, no jargon, just straight talk. We’ll explore its connection with potential health issues—and what you can do about it.
The term “binge-watching” became common in 2015, thanks to a columnist in the US, referring to watching multiple episodes or TV shows continuously without stopping for extended periods, either by watching whole episodes or a significant portion, rather than pausing between them, or you know, going outside!
This habit often leads to increased blood clot formation because of reduced movement and physical activity, potentially reducing blood flow. These clots can pose a serious threat if they travel to vital organs, such as the lungs, possibly leading to death.
Avoiding Health Risks
If you enjoy spending long periods watching TV or episodes of your favorite show, you can take the following simple steps to minimize your risk of developing blood clots:
- Avoid sitting for extended periods in front of the screen. Get up and do some simple exercises.
- If you find it difficult to stop watching, make an effort to stretch your lower limbs for at least 5 minutes.
- Try to drink water.
- Try to get up during the show!
What is Binge-Watching?
Recent Studies and Figures
Before diving into some studies on this topic, let’s take a quick look at some statistics in the Arab world regarding TV viewing. In a survey conducted on nearly 1000 viewers before the launch of OSN’s online service in 2013, it was found that:
- In Egypt:
- 37% of Egyptians spend 3 to 5 hours daily watching TV.
- 26% of Egyptians spend 1 to 3 hours daily watching TV.
- 15% of Egyptians spend about 5 to 7 hours daily during Ramadan watching TV.
- In Saudi Arabia:
- 33% spend 3 to 5 hours daily watching TV.
- In Kuwait:
- 30% spend 3 to 5 hours daily watching TV.
- In the UAE:
- 32% spend 3 to 5 hours daily watching TV.
Japanese Study
A recent study published in the “Journal Circulation” included over 86,000 Japanese individuals aged between 40-70 years to monitor their daily viewing hours. The lives of all participants were followed for 19 years. It found that 59 people died due to pulmonary embolism. The study found that the risk of developing pulmonary embolism increased among those who watched TV for 2.5 – 4.9 hours daily by 70% compared to those who watched less than 2.5 hours. And, um, for every two additional hours, the risk of pulmonary embolism increased by 40%. However, individuals who watched TV for 5 hours or more had an increased risk of pulmonary embolism by approximately 2.5 times.
The study’s author, Dr. Toru Shirakawa, a researcher in public health at the Department of Social Medicine at Osaka University, says that the results of this study should be considered seriously, especially in other countries like America, where program viewing is higher than in Japan. Dr. Shirakawa adds, “Excessive viewing of TV programs and favorite shows for extended periods may indicate that this has become a habit.” It is also important to consider that this condition may be more pronounced.
It’s worth noting that as online platforms become increasingly popular, they offer users the ability to stream favorite shows anytime they want.
While the study couldn’t establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between TV viewing and clot formation, the researchers suggest that the risk of death from watching TV might actually be higher than stated in the study; that is, if the condition is accurately diagnosed.
It’s important to note that the most prominent symptoms of pulmonary embolism are chest pain and shortness of breath (which are also symptoms of other serious illnesses).
American Study
Is it the series or the couch?
Chilling on the couch with snacks, comfort, fun, and relaxation seem the perfect way to watch episodes. While there isn’t much research to confirm the obviousness of “binge-watching,” a recent American study pointed to this phenomenon’s connection with loneliness and depression. The study found that individuals who watch episodes this way are more likely to have difficulty stopping, um, which might indicate attempts to avoid feelings of isolation. However, the researchers emphasized that the final conclusion shouldn’t rely on confirming a connection, but rather on deeper psychological factors, turning to questions like, “Does a person’s psychological state drive them to episodes, or is it the reverse?”
So, next time you’re about to binge-watch that series, think twice.
I never really thought about how much time I spent just sitting and watching TV. This article was a good reminder to get up and move around more. It’s not just about the blood clots; it’s about feeling better overall. I’ve started setting timers to remind myself to take breaks, and it’s actually helped me enjoy my shows more because I’m not just mindlessly watching.
Honestly, I’m one of those people who can easily spend a whole day watching shows. Learning about the risks of blood clots was a bit of a wake-up call. Now, I try to be more mindful and plan other activities during the day. It’s all about balance, right?
I thought the part about loneliness and depression was really interesting. Sometimes, I think I use watching TV to escape, and maybe that’s not the healthiest thing. It’s made me think about finding more ways to connect with people and do things I enjoy outside of the house.
Myth & Facts
Myth: Watching TV is always bad for your health.
Fact: Moderate TV watching combined with an active lifestyle can be part of a balanced routine. The key is to avoid prolonged periods of inactivity.
Question: How often should I take breaks during a binge-watching session?
Answer: Aim for a break every hour to stretch, walk around, and get your blood flowing.
Question: Can drinking water really help?
Answer: Staying hydrated is always a good idea. Plus, getting up to refill your glass encourages you to move!
binge-watching, health risks, blood clots, TV viewing, studies
Okay, so what’s the takeaway here? Next time you’re about to settle in for a marathon of your favorite show, remember this: a little movement goes a long way. It’s not about giving up your shows but balancing your relaxation with some self-care. That’s something *we* can all get behind.
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