Warning: Sitting too much causes brain atrophy and cognitive decline

Sitting too much can lead to brain atrophy and cognitive decline, especially in areas related to memory, regardless of exercise.

Prolonged sitting time can lead to brain atrophy - Photo: economictimes.indiatimes.com

A seven-year study published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia has revealed the negative impact of sitting too much on brain health, even in people who maintain regular exercise habits.

Research shows that prolonged sitting can lead to brain atrophy and cognitive decline, especially in areas involved in memory and decision-making, regardless of exercise intensity.

According to the Jerusalem Post , over the course of seven years, scientists monitored the activity levels of 404 volunteers aged 50 and older. Participants were asked to wear wristbands that accurately measured how much time they spent moving and sitting during the day.

They also underwent a battery of neuropsychological and brain imaging tests to assess changes in brain structure and cognitive function. This approach allows for analysis of the long-term impact of a sedentary lifestyle on brain health.

Remarkably, 87% of participants met physical activity recommendations of at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

However, the study found that people who spent more time sitting still showed clear signs of cognitive decline and neurodegeneration. In particular, the hippocampus - an area that plays a key role in memory and is one of the first areas affected by Alzheimer's - was significantly thinner.

"The study confirms that reducing sitting time may be a promising strategy for preventing cognitive and neurological decline," said the lead researcher at Vanderbilt University in the US. "This suggests that simply following exercise guidelines is not enough to protect the brain from the harmful effects of prolonged sitting."

Neuroscientist Marissa Gogniat (University of Pittsburgh) also emphasized the importance of limiting sedentary behavior: "Reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease is not simply about exercising every day." According to her, reducing the time spent sitting each day plays an essential role in slowing down age-related cognitive decline.

Previous studies have linked sitting to heart disease, diabetes and cancer. This new research adds neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, to the list of serious health consequences associated with a sedentary lifestyle.

The findings are particularly noteworthy for people who work in offices or regularly sit for long periods of time. Scientists recommend incorporating movement into your daily routine in addition to your workouts, such as standing up, stretching, or taking a short walk after periods of sitting.

The study also warns that even people at high genetic risk of Alzheimer's disease may be at risk if they maintain a sedentary lifestyle.

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VNA

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/canh-bao-ngoi-nhieu-gay-teo-nao-suy-giam-nhan-thuc-20250601143412438.htm