Is Technology Making Us Healthier?

As technology advances quicker by the year, there’s an ongoing debate about whether it does more bad than good, especially when it concerns our heal

14:25 24 October 2017

It has been argued that children in this generation are completely consumed by technological developments and that it’s poisoning their mind as well as their body. Others, however, embrace technology and view it in a positive light, emphasising the many benefits that it has on our health. Whilst technology is rapidly affecting the health industry, many people still swear by the positive impact organic treatments have on our health, whether that be herbal remedies or Drip and Chill Richmond treatments. Either way, there are many reasons as to why technology can be beneficial and also detrimental to our health.

 

Factors That Positively Impact Our Health

 

Stay Fit With Phone Apps & Gadgets

 

Whilst many dispute the helpfulness of technology on our health, if used correctly, it can do us the world of good. Take phone apps for example – there are hundreds on the market now encouraging us to exercise regularly and follow a balanced diet. In recent years, we have seen the introduction of the FitBit, which has taken the health and fitness market by storm. With digital advances like that, technology will provide us with ample opportunities to stay healthy and ensure that we are taking care of our bodies appropriately. Many adults point out the danger of video game consoles on our health, but again, look at the fitness encouragement that Nintendo has pushed with the Wii! There are endless games available to help you to stay active.

 

Ability To Gather Data About Severe Illnesses

 

Our health doesn’t always concern physical fitness; it’s so much more than that. Advanced technology allows disease researchers to gather and analyse data effectively. New software called >Hadoop has been introduced into the medical industry, which is helping companies gain a better understanding of life-threatening illnesses such as cancer. Every type of cancer is unique, as the cells mutate differently in each sufferer. With the use of technological software such as Hadoop, those within the medical industry can input genome data into the software, allowing them to determine the best treatments for each patient. Research into illnesses such as cancer has been conducted for decades, but with technology on our side, we might finally see a break-through.

 

Factors That Negatively Impact Our Health

 

It Encourages Us To Remain Inside

 

Technology can improve everybody’s health, but only if it’s used properly. After a hard, stressful day, some may find a game or two helpful for winding down for the evening, and why not? It’s no different to fatty foods – it all needs to be consumed in moderation. Sitting for an hour watching TV or playing games isn’t a problem, but when you spend your entire weekend sat down staring at a screen, it can seriously affect your health. Obviously, if you’re not moving around or participating in any exercise due to the consumption of technology, you are going to gain weight and put your physical health at risk. Plus, spending several hours sat at a computer will not only damage your eyesight, but it can also put strain on your spine.

 

Mental Health Can Deteriorate

 

It's not just physical health that technology can negatively affect, but mental health, too. In recent years, we have seen the development of a new technology addiction, with 66% of people feeling anxious and panicked when they weren't equipped with a mobile phone. This statistic alone shows the worrying effect that technology has on our generation’s mental health. 

 

The risk of insomnia is on the rise, with technology being a key contributor due to the brightness that screens emit. This usage keeps your brain over-active, and runs the risk of you receiving less sleep than your body needs.