That's because our smartphones connect us to so many other things we love, from the people who are precious to us, to the music that enriches our lives.

Knowing that we can't live without our smartphones raises a question, though. How can we live more healthfully with them?

Cell Phone Safety During Cold and Flu Season

While the greatest risk of being infected with colds and the flu comes from inhaling airborne droplets released by people who are ill, a virus can also spread via contaminated surfaces. Plastic and metal, two of the materials commonly used to manufacture smartphones, can harbor a virus for two to three days.

For best cell phone safety, don't share your smartphone with others and don't use other people's phones.

Keep it Clean

It's also a smart practice to disinfect your phone periodically. Phone manufacturers have recently advised users that common disinfectants like alcohol and bleach wipes can be used to clean screens without damaging them. But some products might be too harsh so it's best to follow your phone's manufacturer's advice on the subject.

Cut it Short

There is a body of evidence connecting too much screen time to health problems. In studies of cell phone safety, screen time has been linked to obesity and it can also disrupt our sleep patterns. The light from these devices has been shown to reduce the sleep-inducing hormone known as melatonin and make it harder to stay asleep at night.

Another tip for better sleep would be to take some highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium. Magnesium has also been proven to help reduce the harmful effects of radiation from cell phones.

Caring for Kids

Some parents have all but given up trying to limit their kids' screen time. But limiting our kids' use of smartphones remains important.

The shows and games that appear to keep the kids' minds engaged may actually impair their thinking and learning abilities later in life. In summary, it's safe to say that family members of all ages can improve their health by taking steps to use their cell phones safely.

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