Why we shouldn’t read while on the toilet …
According to a survey in the UK, the average person spends around 3 hours in the toilet per week, which is more than the recommended 10 to 15 minutes per day. That’s roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes per week.
If you’re wondering how that time flies by, cell phones are the answer. Seventy-five percent of Americans say they use their phones while they’re on the toilet.
Why We Shouldn’t Read While On The Toilet
We’d like to share with you 6 reasons why you should never spend longer than 15 minutes on the toilet.
1. Hemorrhoids And Other Rectal Issues
Doctors say that the normal amount of time to spend in the toilet is 1 to 15 minutes. If you spend more time in the toilet, it puts more pressure on your anus.
Hemorrhoids are the most common symptom.
Prolapse is the second most common symptom. Rectal prolapse is when your rectum starts to move. It may seem scary, but doctors don’t think it’s an emergency unless you don’t treat it.
RELATED: Why It’s Better to Stop Using Toilet Paper
2. Phones Are Playgrounds For Germs
Cell phones are extremely effective at transmitting and trapping germs. Cell phones can carry germs from the phone’s screen to your private spaces when you’re cleaning.
Cell phones can also carry germs from any surfaces in the bathroom when you wash your hands or flush the toilet.
Cell phones have been linked to the spread of MRSA, a superbug, in healthcare settings.
According to the NCBI, cell phones can transmit MRSA to a random patient.
3. You Don’t Need To Be On The Toilet To Be Mindful
Using your phone will not only put your brain in a state of stress, but it will also take you away from your day-to-day life.
RELATED: 7 Natural Remedies for Urinary Incontinence and Overactive Bladder
If you need a break from your phone, meditate or do some exercise.
It will activate your body and your brain at the same time. When you eat, try to savor the food and not rush through it.
If meditation isn’t your thing, try reading books. Reading will help you stay focused on the words and not be distracted by your phone.
You will just disconnect from everything that is bothering you and enter a different world.
4. You Think Of Toilet Time As A Form Of Escape
According to the NCBI, the majority of participants reported using their phones to repress negative thoughts and feelings.
The same study found that students were using their phones to cope with boredom.
The continued use of phones as a coping mechanism can have a significant effect on our mental well-being.
RELATED: Benefits Of Drinking Hot Water On An Empty Stomach
The good news is that some people use their phones to help them cope with stress.
The bad news is that a 2014 study found that for many millennials, staying away from their phones can be extremely stressful.
5. You Waste Your Precious Time
The survey found that on average, we spend 90 minutes on our phones every day, which is the equivalent of 3.9 full years of our lives.
Using our phones can take us away from our jobs and our day-to-day lives.
In fact, the study found that employees spend about 5 hours per week on non-work-related activities.
For example, many employees admitted to checking their personal email and social media accounts while they were at work.
6. You Get Addicted To Your Phone
One of the three most common signs of phone addiction is the fear of going home without your phone.
The other two are the fear of being unable to send and receive text messages, and the false sensation that you receive alerts.
RELATED: 7 Secrets of Successful Pelvic Floor Exercising
Although many scientists still avoid the term “addiction,” there is evidence that this is actually happening.
The transmission of dopamine is what most addictions are about. Phones provide the same “wellness” experience, making you happy every time you talk to someone.
Excessive phone use can lead to poor self-esteem, feelings of anxiety, and depression.
FAQs Related To Why We Shouldn’t Read While On The Toilet
Should you read a book in the toilet?
Bacteria can get into your hands, your hands can get into the pages of your book, and the pages will absorb the bacteria and pass it on when you’re passing it around.
Why is it bad to be on your phone in the toilet?
One out of every six cell phones has some kind of germs that come from your phone’s poop!
Why do people sit on the toilet and read?
Reading could be their way of having fun while they’re sitting around.
Why do men read while on the toilet?
Toilet reading is a great way for guys and guys to get their reading done without any interruptions.
RELATED: Is Using Hand Soap As Body Wash Problematic?
Is it OK to read books in bed?
Yes. Reading a book before bed can help you get a better night’s sleep.
What happens when you sit in the toilet for too long?
There will be pressure on your anus and rectum
Can urine damage your phone?
Yes. Urine is acidic, which can be a real bummer for electronics.