The conversation around brain health often centers on major lifestyle choices like diet and exercise, but a recent viral warning from neurologist Dr. Bing, MD, MPH (also known as Baibing Chen) is shifting the focus. In a widely shared social media post, Dr. Bing highlighted three surprisingly common, seemingly innocuous habits that he strictly avoids and advises others to drop, explaining how these simple routines can silently pose risks to your cognitive and overall health.

The Nightly Danger: Wearing Headphones to Bed

The first habit Dr. Bing cautions against is the frequent use of headphones or earbuds while sleeping. While listening to calming sounds might seem like a peaceful way to drift off, Dr. Bing advises extreme caution, particularly regarding volume.

He explains that loud sounds played through headphones can cause cumulative damage to the delicate hair cells in the inner ear. Over time, this damage not only leads to hearing loss but can also be linked to an elevated risk of dementia.

Furthermore, wearing headphones for extended periods, especially while sleeping, can disrupt the quality of deep sleep. Deep sleep is when the brain’s glymphatic system performs its vital nightly 'cleaning cycle,' purging toxins and metabolic waste. Interrupting this crucial process can potentially impair cognitive function and long-term brain health. To protect your brain’s natural cleanup crew, Dr. Bing recommends ensuring that any sounds played through headphones at night are quiet, or better yet, avoiding them altogether.

The Hidden Connection: Neglecting Gum Health

The second habit on Dr. Bing’s list is often overlooked: neglecting gum health. The neurologist emphasized that poor oral hygiene is not just a dental issue; it may have significant implications for the brain.

Dr. Bing himself follows a rigorous nightly routine, including flossing, water flossing, and brushing. He cites recent studies suggesting a strong correlation between oral hygiene and neurological well-being. Poor gum health, which often involves chronic inflammation and the presence of harmful bacteria, has been linked to increased risk factors for cognitive issues. A 2025 study, for instance, found that individuals with more gum disease and cavities faced almost double the risk of stroke, with other research connecting poor oral health to increased risks of dementia and cognitive decline. This emphasizes that taking care of your teeth and gums is a simple, yet powerful, protective measure for your grey matter.

 The Time Trap: Lingering on the Toilet

Perhaps the most unexpected warning is against the habit of sitting on the toilet for an excessive amount of time—specifically, more than five minutes. While many people use this time to catch up on social media or reading, Dr. Bing advises against lingering.

The reason is a matter of blood flow and pressure. Sitting for too long, particularly when combined with straining, can cause blood to pool in the legs. This pooling leads to a sudden drop in blood pressure, and if not enough blood is circulating back to the brain, it can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting. As a neurologist, Dr. Bing notes that he witnesses examples of such incidents frequently. Though those with chronic bowel conditions are often an exception, for the general public, he cautions strongly: finish your business promptly and avoid turning the restroom into a reading lounge.

These three habits, though seemingly minor, serve as a profound reminder that maintaining cognitive health is about paying attention to all the subtle routines in our daily lives, not just the obvious big ones.
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