Many people use their smartphone in the toilet. They feel it is a good chance to send a text or check out the latest videos on social media. However, doctors say scrolling through your phone while on the toilet could damage your body. Dr. Saurabh Sethi is a gastroenterologist who graduated from Harvard University. He studied the functions of the stomach and intestines. He has warned that bacteria in the bathroom pose many health risks. Dr Sethi said too many people were taking their phones to the lavatory without knowing about the dangers. He urged us to stop this habit. He said being addicted to smartphones, "can actually have some serious consequences, especially whilst doing a 'number two'".

Dr Sethi said many people wrongly believe using their smartphone in the toilet is harmless. He listed several issues that could arise while checking your emails on the loo. One is that it can damage the "toilet areas" of your stomach. Using a smartphone results in sitting on the toilet for longer periods of time. This puts extra pressure on our "tubes" and can make people's veins swell up. Another potential hazard comes from micro-organisms and germs. Dr Sethi warned that using your phone in the loo can, "make your device a "breeding ground for bacteria". He added: "The average smartphone is dirtier than a public toilet seat, so try avoiding scrolling while using the toilet."