• Published on: May 06, 2022
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

How To Manage Addiction To Your Smartphone?

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The first step is recognizing that you have a problem. If you're constantly checking your phone for messages, notifications, or updates even when you're not expecting anything, then you're probably addicted to your smartphone.

The next step is breaking the habit. This can be done by turning off all notifications except for calls and putting your phone in a place where you can't see it or reach it easily. You might also want to delete any apps that are causing problems.

Finally, replace the bad habit with a good one. Instead of checking your phone all the time, try reading a book, going for a walk, or spending time with friends and family.

There are a few things you can do to help manage your addiction to your smartphone:

1. Set boundaries for yourself and stick to them. For example, decide that you will only check your phone for a certain number of times each day or that you will only use it for certain purposes (e.g., checking email, browsing the web, etc.).

2. Put your phone away when you're not using it. This will help keep you from constantly looking at it and getting distracted.

3. Make use of notification settings to customize how often you receive alerts for different types of messages (e.g., text messages, calls, emails, etc.).

4. Delete any apps that you find addictive or distracting. This will help make it easier to resist using your phone when you shouldn't be.

Some ways to manage addiction to your smartphone include setting time limits on how long you can use your phone each day, and turning off notifications for apps that you don't need to be constantly updated on. You can also try leaving your phone at home when you go out, orPutting it in a different room while you're trying to sleep. If all else fails, you can always delete the apps that are causing the most trouble. There are a few things you can do to manage your addiction to your smartphone. First, try to set some ground rules for yourself and stick to them. For example, try not to use your phone for the first hour after you wake up in the morning, or try not to use it for an hour before bedtime.

Another thing you can do is limit the amount of time you spend on your phone each day. Try setting a timer and only using your phone for a certain number of hours each day. And finally, try using an app like "Freedom" or "Cold Turkey" that will block certain websites or apps on your phone so that you're not tempted to use them. The first step is to become aware of your addiction and the triggers that set it off. For example, if you're addicted to your phone, you might find yourself checking it constantly when you're bored or when there's nothing else to do. You might also use it to avoid uncomfortable or stressful situations.

Once you know what sets off your addiction, the next step is to develop strategies for dealing with those triggers. If you're bored, for example, try occupying yourself with another activity instead of checking your phone. If you're feeling stressed, take a few deep breaths or go for a walk until the feeling subsides.

Track how many times you pick it up each day and how long you use it each time. Be honest with yourself.  If you're using your phone too much, start by setting some limits on yourself. Decide when and for how long you're going to use your phone each day. Put your phone away when you're done using it or hand it over to someone else during that time period. If that's too hard, try turning off notifications for certain apps or put your phone in Airplane Mode at night so you can't be disturbed. And lastly, don't keep your phone in your bedroom at night.

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Does Skipping Meals Slow Your Metabolism

Does Skipping Meals Slow Your Metabolism?

Many people skip meals hoping to lose weight or save time. But what happens inside your body when you do that? One of the most common concerns is:
Does skipping meals slow your metabolism?
Let’s explore the facts, myths, and what science really says.

 

What Is Metabolism?

Metabolism is the process your body uses to convert the food and drinks you consume into energy. Even when you're sleeping, your body is burning calories for basic functions like breathing and circulating blood. This is called your basal metabolic rate (BMR).

The faster your metabolism, the more calories you burn—naturally.

 

What Happens When You Skip a Meal?

When you skip a meal, your body starts looking for alternate energy sources. First, it uses stored glucose. If that runs out, it may break down fat or even muscle.

You may feel:

  • Tired or sluggish
     

  • Lightheaded or irritable
     

  • Crave sugary or high-carb foods later
     

If this becomes a regular pattern, it can impact your overall health and metabolism.

 

Does Skipping Meals Actually Slow Down Metabolism?

Short answer: Yes, it can—especially if done frequently.

Here’s how:

  1. Your body goes into conservation mode.
    To protect itself, your body may burn fewer calories if it senses food is not coming regularly.
     

  2. You may lose muscle.
    Skipping meals, especially without enough protein, can lead to muscle loss. Muscle burns more calories than fat—even at rest.
     

  3. Hormonal imbalance.
    Skipping meals can increase cortisol (the stress hormone), which is linked to fat storage, especially around the belly.
     

  4. Energy dips.
    Less fuel = less energy = less movement = fewer calories burned.
     

So yes, skipping meals may slow down your metabolism over time, making it harder to lose or maintain weight.

 

Is Intermittent Fasting the Same?

Not exactly. Intermittent fasting (IF) is a planned eating pattern, like eating between 12 PM and 8 PM.

It gives your body time to digest and repair, and when done right, does not necessarily slow metabolism.

The problem is randomly skipping meals without planning or nutrition tracking. That’s when metabolism can suffer.

 

Skipping Meals and Overeating

Another big issue is compensation. People who skip meals often overeat later in the day.

You may:

  • Binge on snacks
     

  • Choose unhealthy options due to cravings
     

  • Eat faster and beyond fullness
     

This can lead to weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and digestive discomfort.

 

Impact on Brain and Mood

Food fuels your brain. Skipping meals can cause:

  • Low focus and memory issues
     

  • Irritability and mood swings
     

  • Poor decision-making (especially with food choices)
     

It can also affect sleep and increase fatigue.

 

Healthy Alternatives to Skipping Meals

If you’re trying to lose weight or manage calories, here are smarter strategies:

1. Try time-restricted eating

Eat within a 10–12 hour window daily. This gives the benefits of fasting without shocking your system.

2. Eat smaller portions, not fewer meals

Balance your plate with carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Even 200–300 calorie meals can keep metabolism stable.

3. Stay hydrated

Sometimes thirst feels like hunger. Drink enough water throughout the day.

4. Focus on protein and fiber

They keep you full longer and help preserve muscle.

 

When to Worry

If you skip meals often and notice:

  • Constant fatigue
     

  • Weight gain despite eating less
     

  • Cold hands and feet
     

  • Hair thinning or dry skin
     

…these may be signs your metabolism has slowed down. Consult a doctor and consider tests like:

  • Thyroid function test
     

  • Vitamin B12/D3 levels
     

  • Fasting blood sugar
     

You can book these via SecondMedic.com, with home sample collection powered by Thyrocare.

 

Conclusion

Skipping meals once in a while won’t ruin your metabolism. But making it a habit can lead to slower calorie burning, muscle loss, and overeating.

If your goal is better health, focus on balanced eating, meal planning, and mindful food habits.

So, the next time you ask, “Does skipping meals slow your metabolism?”, remember—yes, it can, especially without strategy or support. Eat smart, not less.

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