Screen Time Before Bed Tied to Worse Sleep, Higher BMI

Use of technology immediately before bed reduces the quantity and quality of sleep in children, as well as elevated body mass index (BMI), according to the findings of a recent study.¹

The study included 234 children between 8 to 17 years of age. Parents of the children completed a survey on the hours children slept, inattentive behaviors, and the use of technology, including computer, video games, cell phone, and television, right before bedtime. Electronic use at bedtime was assessed in relation to sleep quantity and quality, inattention, and BMI.
​______________________________________________________________________
RELATED CONTENT
Binge Watching Linked to Poorer Sleep
Obstructive Sleep Apnea May Hinder Brain Development in Children
______________________________________________________________________

Overall, the use of any device at bedtime was associated with a statistically significant increase in the use of other devices at both bedtime and in the middle of the night, which reduced the quality and quantity of sleep. In addition, children who watched television or played video games prior to bedtime slept an average of 30 minutes less than those who did not, and those who used their phones or computers prior to bed slept 1 hour less than those who did not. 

Likewise, the researchers found a statistically significantly association between technology use at bedtime and a higher BMI. 

However, little association was found between inattention and technology use.

“Although there are many benefits to using technology, pediatricians may want to counsel parents about limiting technology for their kids, particularly at bedtime, to promote healthy childhood development and mental health,” the researchers concluded.²

—Melissa Weiss

Reference:

1) Fuller C, Lehman E, Hicks S, Novick MB. Bedtime use of technology and associated sleep problems in children [published online October 27, 2017]. Glob Pediatr Health. https://doi.org/10.1177/2333794X17736972.

2) Screen time before bed linked with less sleep, higher BMIs in kids [press release]. University Park, PA: Penn State, December 5, 2017. https://news.psu.edu/story/496770/2017/12/05/research/screen-time-bed-linked-less-sleep-higher-bmis-kids. Accessed December 8, 2017.