Research: Addiction to mobiles and the internet causes brain imbalance

protothema.gr: Research: mobiles and internet addiction causes brain imbalance

The addiction of people to “smart” electronic devices could cause a significant brain imbalance, according to a new study published by the British newspaper “Independent”.

The research, which was conducted on people who depended on their mobile phone and the internet, found that their brain function had been altered. This fact had caused chemical imbalances that could cause severe anxiety and fatigue.

People who describe themselves as addicted to their phone have been subjected to magnetic (MRS), which examines the chemical “makeup” of people’s brains. The researchers measured the levels of g-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical that slows the signals in the brain.

Scientists have concluded that the amino acid (GABA) ratio  with another important neurotransmitter has been deregulated in individuals diagnosed with Internet addiction and their cell phone. This could have a major impact on the way their brain works, the researchers said.

Previous studies have linked the GABA amino acid to visual and motion control as well as regulating various brain functions, including anxiety.

Changes in the brain could also be associated with information and emotional processing problems, according to Hyung Suk Seo, a professor at the University of Korea and head of research.

The study looked at 19 young people who were diagnosed with internet or “smart” devices addiction.

Participants were rated for how strong their dependence on the mobile or the internet was. This was done by using a questionnaire with researchers to look at whether their cell phone reduces their productivity or sleep, for example.

Scientists have also found that the proportion of “GABA” amino acid with creatine and glutamate (two important acids) -related to their cell and internet addiction- favors the development of depression and intense anxiety.

Source: www.protothema.gr