A leading neurologist has issued a stark warning over three seemingly harmless everyday habits, revealing the practices he refuses to do to safeguard his long-term brain health. Dr Bing, a neurologist, physician-scientist and epidemiologist with over 200,000 followers, highlighted the hidden dangers of actions millions perform routinely, starting with a common bedtime ritual.
The Hidden Dangers of Bedtime Headphones
Dr Bing's first major warning centres on the popular practice of wearing headphones or earbuds to sleep. While many rely on podcasts or white noise to drift off, he explains this can quietly cause long-term damage if not done correctly. The critical factor is volume.
"If you're one of those people who wears headphones to bed, just make sure that the sounds that you're playing are quiet and not loud," Dr Bing advised. "Because loud sounds can damage hair cells in your inner ear, and over time, can raise your risk of hearing loss, and dementia."
This warning is backed by concerning research. A pivotal Johns Hopkins study, which tracked 639 adults for nearly 12 years, found that mild hearing loss doubled dementia risk, while moderate loss tripled it. Experts stress that once the delicate inner ear hair cells are damaged, they do not regenerate, making any hearing loss permanent.
Bacteria, Sleep Disruption and Bathroom Risks
Volume isn't the only concern with overnight headphone use. Dr Bing points out that wearing earbuds for hours creates a warm, moist environment perfect for bacterial growth, increasing infection risk. Poorly fitting devices can also damage ear canal skin through repeated pressure, potentially leading to restricted blood flow and tissue damage in severe cases.
Furthermore, sound playing through the night can disrupt the brain's vital sleep cycles. "It might interrupt your deep sleep and disrupt your lymphatic system, which is your brain's nightly cleaning cycle that cleans out toxins," he explained.
Dr Bing's second non-negotiable habit focuses on oral health, which he says is profoundly underestimated in brain protection. Emerging research consistently links poor oral health to neurological decline. "A 2025 study found that people with more gum disease and cavities had almost doubled the risk of stroke. And other studies have linked poor oral health to dementia and cognitive decline," he noted.
His third surprising rule involves bathroom habits. "I don't sit on the toilet for more than five minutes," he stated. Lingering too long, especially while straining, can cause blood to pool in the legs and lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure. "Not enough blood going to your brain can cause someone to faint. Unfortunately, I see examples of this almost every week," Dr Bing warned.
Public Reaction and Expert Advice
The advice resonated deeply online, sparking debate and self-reflection. Many viewers admitted their reliance on noise-cancelling earbuds to combat a partner's snoring, while others questioned their nightly routines. The comment sections filled with people tagging partners known for lengthy toilet scrolling sessions.
While acknowledging that those with chronic conditions may have limited choice, Dr Bing's core message is clear: being mindful of these common habits can significantly reduce hidden risks to our cognitive wellbeing. The simple acts of lowering headphone volume, maintaining rigorous oral hygiene, and limiting time on the toilet could be powerful, preventative steps for long-term brain health.
