Gadgets Harm Gut and Liver Health, Doctors Warn

The pervasive use of mobile phones, laptops, and digital gadgets is no longer just a sleep disruptor but poses significant threats to metabolic health. Over the past four to five years, experts have observed a marked increase in gut, liver, and heart-related issues, particularly among adolescents and adults aged 14 to 35 in urban settings. Many patients are presenting with symptoms like poor sleep, anxiety, and irritability, directly linked to their screen-heavy routines.

Doctors are noting a distinct pattern where chronic sleep deprivation, a common side effect of late-night gadget use, exacerbates digestive problems. This screen exposure suppresses melatonin, a crucial hormone for both sleep and gut regulation. Furthermore, distracted eating habits while using devices weaken the brain-gut connection, leading to persistent discomfort such as bloating and acidity, even when medical reports show no abnormalities.

A concerning 2025 study revealed that adolescents spending five or more hours daily on screens faced a significantly higher risk of developing fatty liver disease. This condition, once primarily an adult concern, is now being diagnosed in younger individuals who often lead sedentary lives with irregular sleep schedules and high screen dependence. Experts recommend limiting screen time before bed and during meals, alongside increased physical activity.