Neurologist Warns | Everyday Habits Damaging Your Brain

When it comes to brain health, we often emphasize our diets, sleep, or exercise. But, as neurologist Dr. Bing (MD, MPH) reveals, it is frequently the subtle things we do—often things that seem harmless—that might be inflicting damage on the most important organ in our body. In fact, as part of his latest Instagram post on November 4, Dr. Bing listed three daily habits he himself avoids—and thinks most people should avoid too—because of the effects they may have on cognitive function and longer-term brain health.

Here’s what they are and the reasons you may want to think twice before doing them.

1. Sleeping or Wearing Headphones for an Extended Period

Dr. Bing states that wearing headphones whilst you sleep can be more harmful than it is relaxing. Many people listen to calming music or white noise as they fall asleep but wearing headphones for a lengthy period of time—especially in-ear headphones or earbuds—can be detrimental to the stereo system of your auditory system and to blood circulation to the vicinity of the ear and brain.

Even prolonged exposure to low-volume sounds may lead to auditory fatigue and overstimulation of the neural circuit, thus impairing your brain’s ability to fully recover during sleep cycles. Problems with focus and memory and emotional regulation can also arise from this long-term. Tight-fitting headphones can be worse as they may increase the potential for ear infections due to trapping moisture and ventilation.

2. Neglecting Gum Health

This may seem disconnected, but according to Dr. Bing, poor dental practices are directly correlated with brain degeneration. Gum swelling or periodontal disease gives way for negative bacteria to enter the bloodstream, where it can travel to the brain and lead to neuroinflammation (also a known pathway to Alzheimer’s and other dementia-type diseases). Multiple studies show that healthy gums not only benefit heart health but also protect the brain from inflammatory and degenerative damage. In addition, brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist are quick and simple practices for maintaining the brain’s health long-term.

3. Sitting Too Long on the Toilet

Another bad habit that Dr. Bing suggests we cease is sitting on the toilet for extended time periods (often while scrolling through your phone). He states that limited sitting is limiting blood flow to the lower body and pelvic regions and could indirectly reduce cerebral circulation as well.

Diminished blood flow and strain can elevate blood pressure, which puts additional strain on the blood vessels that supply oxygen to the brain. Over time, this could lead to possible vascular damage or mild cognitive impairment.

Brain health is about more than just mental activity or superfoods—it’s also about considerations for the daily behaviors that support neurological balance. Dr. Bing’s message is clear: the brain functions best with great circulation, good sleep, and low inflammation.

Small changes in behavior—such as taking out your ear buds before bedtime, cleaning your gums, and not spending long minutes in the restroom—can help you make strides in preserving memory, focus, and your overall cognition for many years to come.