HEALTHY LIVING

How Social Media Apps Can Keep You Addicted

Published

9 months ago

March 2, 2024

How Social Media Apps Keep You Addicted | Fab.ng

Many of us have experienced the struggle of trying to disconnect from our phones, especially from social media apps, only to find ourselves pulled back in constantly. We might mindlessly switch between different apps, scroll through social media feeds, and engage in online discussions.

This cycle can consume our time, leaving us feeling like we’ve spent an entire day glued to the screen, from waking up to falling asleep.

But why does this happen? What makes us crave the latest online trends and conversations, constantly seeking updates and engaging in them?

The social media app algorithm

Social media platforms employ clever systems called algorithms to keep users engaged and coming back for more. These algorithms are like invisible analysts, studying the way you use the platform. They pay close attention to your actions, such as the things you like, comment on, share, and how long you spend looking at specific posts.

Based on this information, the algorithms create a personalised feed just for you. They organise the content you see in a way that they think will be most interesting to you, keeping you scrolling and interacting. This is all done with one main goal: to keep you using the platform as much as possible.

The longer you stay engaged, the more opportunities there are for you to see advertisements and interact with content that benefits the platform. As you continue to use the platform and interact with content, the algorithms learn even more about your preferences, constantly refining your personalised feed to keep you hooked.

Why are you addicted to social media?

How Social Media Apps Keep You Addicted | Fab.ng

Our brains and how they work are a big reason why social media is so addictive, and it’s hard to put our phones down.

1. Variable rewards

Think of social media like a surprise box. You never know what you’re going to find when you open it. Maybe you’ll see funny pictures, interesting news, or a message from a friend.

This mystery is part of what makes social media so addictive. The surprise keeps you coming back for more, even if you don’t know what you’ll get.

2. Infinite scrolling

Some apps, like Instagram, have a feature called “infinite scrolling.” This means that as you scroll down, new content automatically loads onto your screen, so you never reach the end. There’s always something new to see, and you can keep scrolling for as long as you want.

It’s like having an endless stream of information and entertainment at your fingertips. Unlike other things you might look at, like a book or a TV show, social media doesn’t have a natural stopping point. You’re in control of how much time you spend scrolling and what content you choose to see.

3. The dopamine effect

When you get a notification or a “like” on your social media post, your brain releases a chemical called dopamine that makes you feel good. This good feeling makes you want to keep using social media to get more of that feeling. This cycle can lead to social media addiction.

Social media companies design their apps to keep you hooked using a theory called the “Hooked Model.” This model says that there are four steps that keep users engaged:

Trigger: Something happens (like a notification) that makes you want to check your phone.
Action: You open the app and start looking at content.
Reward: You get something enjoyable, like seeing a funny video or getting a like on your post. This reward is unpredictable, which keeps you wanting more.
Investment: You share something or create content on the app, which makes you feel more invested in using it.

4. The lure of novelty

Human brains naturally crave new things to learn and see. This is why you enjoy exploring new places, trying different foods, and learning new skills. Social media and the internet are like never-ending playgrounds for human brains. They constantly provide you with a fresh flow of information, from funny videos and interesting articles to updates from friends and family.

This constant stream of new content keeps the brain stimulated and wanting to explore more, making it easy to spend a lot of time on these platforms.

5. Social connection

Humans naturally desire connection with others. Social media platforms act like online communities, providing a sense of belonging and connection. They allow you to interact and share with friends and family, no matter how far apart you are.

Additionally, social media can connect you with strangers who share similar interests, creating new friendships and expanding your social circles.

6. Fear of missing out (FOMO)

When you spend time offline, you might worry about missing out on something important, like news, updates, or conversations with friends. This fear of missing out can make you feel anxious and cause you to constantly check your phone to stay “in the loop.”

By being mindful of your phone usage, you can make conscious choices about when and how much you engage with social media.

For more articles like this, visit here.

Up Next

Tattoo Inks Contain Ingredients Linked To Cancer And Organ Damage

Don't Miss

All You Need To Know About Mercedes AI-Powered Voice Assistant

HEALTHY LIVING

How To Stop Snoring When Sleeping

Published

1 day ago

November 23, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

How To Stop Snoring When Sleeping | fab.ng

Snoring disrupts sleep for both the person snoring and their partner, lowering overall sleep quality. It’s more than a nighttime nuisance—it often signals health concerns like sleep apnea. Learning how to stop snoring is essential for better sleep and improved health.

To stop snoring, start by addressing your sleep position. Sleeping on your back can worsen snoring as gravity pulls the tongue and soft tissues backward, narrowing the airway.

Shift to your side to improve airflow. Another effective method for how to stop snoring is maintaining a healthy weight. Excess fat, especially around the neck, constricts breathing passages.

Lifestyle choices also matter. Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, as they relax throat muscles, making snoring worse.

Staying hydrated is another simple tip for how to stop snoring, as dryness thickens the mucus in the throat. For nasal congestion, saline sprays or humidifiers can keep airways open.

In severe cases, consult a doctor. Conditions like sleep apnea may require treatments such as CPAP machines or surgery.

Committing to these strategies can show you how to stop snoring effectively, transforming your sleep quality and overall well-being.

1. Lifestyle Modifications

Weight Management: Excess weight, particularly around the neck, can contribute to snoring. Weight loss can alleviate this issue.
Dietary Adjustments: Limiting alcohol and sedatives can relax the throat muscles, increasing the likelihood of snoring. A balanced diet can also help maintain overall health.
Smoking Cessation: Smoking irritates the airways, making snoring worse. Quitting smoking can improve respiratory health and reduce snoring.
Optimal Sleep Posture: Sleeping on your back can worsen snoring. Side sleeping or using a special pillow designed to keep you in a side position can be beneficial.

2. Over-the-Counter Remedies

Nasal Strips: These adhesive strips can help open nasal passages, reducing snoring caused by nasal congestion.
Oral Appliances: Mouthguards or dental devices can help keep the airway open during sleep. Consult a dentist for a proper fit.

3. Medical Interventions

If lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies are ineffective, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended. They may suggest:

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A machine that delivers pressurised air to keep the airway open during sleep.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to correct structural issues in the throat or nose.

If you or your partner notices loud, frequent snoring, especially accompanied by symptoms like daytime sleepiness, choking sounds, or gasping for air, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can improve your overall health and quality of life.

By implementing these strategies and seeking professional help when needed, you can enjoy quieter nights and a healthier sleep pattern.

For more reads, visit here.

HEALTHY LIVING

5 Health Problems That Can Develop From Crying

Published

1 week ago

November 16, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Health Problems Caused By Crying | fab.ng

Crying acts as a natural way to release emotions and can help relieve stress in difficult moments. However, health problems can arise and they can be caused by crying too often or too intensely.

Health problems caused by crying can arise, especially when linked to extreme emotions like grief, anxiety, or prolonged sadness. For instance, frequent crying may result in headaches, swollen eyes, or even chest discomfort due to increased stress.

Moreover, health problems caused by crying can include shortness of breath or heart palpitations, especially if crying episodes are intense. Individuals who cry excessively might also experience exacerbation of mental health conditions like depression.

Understanding these health problems caused by crying is crucial, as it helps people take the necessary steps to manage their emotional health effectively.

1. Headaches and Migraines

One of the most common physical effects of crying is a headache. The act of crying can cause muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalp, leading to headaches or even migraines.

When you cry, your body releases a surge of stress hormones like cortisol, which can cause blood vessels in the brain to expand and trigger pain.

Frequent crying, especially if it’s intense, can worsen this pain, leaving you feeling drained and exhausted afterwards. For people already prone to migraines, crying can act as a trigger, making these episodes more frequent.

2. Puffy and Swollen Eyes

Crying often leads to swollen, red, and puffy eyes. This happens because tears contain salt, which can irritate the sensitive tissues around the eyes.

Additionally, the increased blood flow to the area during intense crying can cause fluid to accumulate, leading to puffiness.

If someone cries frequently, this can become more than just a temporary cosmetic issue—it can cause persistent irritation and swelling, particularly if they rub their eyes often during crying episodes.

3. Difficulty Breathing and Hyperventilation

During an intense crying spell, some people might experience shortness of breath or even hyperventilation. This occurs because crying affects your breathing pattern, causing rapid, shallow breaths.

When you hyperventilate, you expel too much carbon dioxide, which can lead to dizziness, light-headedness, or even fainting. For those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma, crying episodes can exacerbate symptoms, making it harder to catch their breath.

4. Chest Pain and Heart Palpitations

Strong emotions, especially those tied to crying, can put a significant strain on your cardiovascular system. Crying intensely can lead to chest tightness and palpitations because it activates the body’s stress response.

The surge of adrenaline and other stress hormones can make your heart rate increase, which can feel like a racing heart or chest discomfort.

While occasional crying-induced chest pain may not be harmful, if it occurs frequently, it could indicate deeper emotional or cardiovascular issues that may require medical attention.

5. Exacerbation of Mental Health Conditions

While crying can sometimes be a healthy emotional release, crying excessively might indicate deeper mental health concerns like anxiety or depression.

Chronic crying can worsen feelings of hopelessness or sadness, creating a cycle that affects mental well-being. According to research, while some people may feel relief after crying, others may not, especially if they are already struggling with depression.

This emotional toll can manifest physically, causing fatigue, body aches, and a weakened immune system due to prolonged stress.

Coping Strategies for Managing Excessive Crying

If you find yourself crying frequently, there are ways to manage it. Mindful breathing techniques, physical exercise, and speaking to a mental health professional can help reduce the frequency of emotional outbursts.

It’s also essential to recognize that crying may be a sign of underlying health conditions, particularly if it begins to interfere with your daily life.

While crying is a normal and often healthy emotional release, understanding its physical and emotional effects can help you manage your well-being more effectively. If crying episodes become overwhelming, consider seeking support from healthcare professionals.

Visit here for more health articles.

HEALTHY LIVING

12 Daily Habits That Cause Mouth Odour Even After Brushing

Published

3 weeks ago

November 2, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Habits That Cause Mouth Odour Even After Brushing | fab.ng

Bad breath can be frustrating, especially if it lingers even after brushing. Certain habits that cause mouth odour even after brushing are often overlooked but can significantly impact oral health.

For example, skipping flossing allows food particles and bacteria to build up between teeth, leading to unpleasant odours.

Additionally, dehydration causes a dry mouth, reducing saliva production, which typically helps wash away odour-causing bacteria.

Consuming strong-smelling foods like garlic and onions can also lead to mouth odour, even after brushing, as these scents linger and are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Smoking or using tobacco is another major contributor, coating the mouth with lingering smells that brushing alone can’t remove.

Regularly addressing these habits that cause mouth odour even after brushing can improve breath freshness and overall oral health.

Proper hydration, a full oral hygiene routine, and avoiding certain foods can make all the difference.

Poor Oral Hygiene:

1. Neglecting Tongue Cleaning: The tongue harbours bacteria, which can cause significant bad breath. Using a tongue scraper daily can effectively remove these bacteria and freshen your breath.

2. Skipping Flossing: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. These trapped particles can lead to bacterial growth and bad breath.

3. Relying Solely on Mouthwash: While mouthwash can temporarily mask bad breath, it doesn’t address the underlying issue. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential for removing plaque and bacteria.

4. Dehydration: Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria, keeping your mouth fresh. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help maintain adequate saliva production.

Underlying Health Conditions:

5. Dry Mouth: Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can lead to bad breath as saliva helps to wash away bacteria. Certain medications, medical conditions, and habits like mouth breathing can contribute to dry mouth.

6. Gum Disease: Gum disease, characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, can cause persistent bad breath. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene are crucial for preventing gum disease.

7. Sinus Infections: Sinus infections can lead to postnasal drip, which can cause bad breath. Treatment of underlying sinus infections is essential for improving breath odour.

8. Gastrointestinal Issues: Certain digestive disorders, such as acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome, can cause bad breath. Treating these underlying conditions can help alleviate bad breath.

Lifestyle Factors:

9. Diet: Consuming strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, and spicy foods can contribute to temporary bad breath. Additionally, a diet high in sugar can feed bacteria, leading to increased bad breath.

10. Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking and tobacco use can significantly worsen bad breath. These habits can irritate the mouth and throat, leading to dry mouth and increased bacterial growth.

11. Certain Medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect, contributing to bad breath. Consult with your doctor to discuss potential alternatives or strategies to manage dry mouth.

12. Stress and Anxiety: Stress and anxiety can lead to increased saliva production, which can sometimes cause bad breath. Practising relaxation techniques and stress management strategies can help alleviate this issue.

To maintain fresh breath, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene, stay hydrated, and address any underlying health conditions. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial for identifying and treating potential causes of bad breath.

Here are some additional tips for maintaining fresh breath:

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can dehydrate the mouth and contribute to bad breath.
Limit sugary drinks: Sugary drinks can feed bacteria, leading to increased bad breath.
Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production and help to wash away food particles and bacteria.
Use a mouthwash with antibacterial properties: A mouthwash with antibacterial properties can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Consider using a dental rinse: A dental rinse can help remove plaque and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.

If you are concerned about bad breath, it is important to see your dentist or doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Get more health tips here.