Too long sitting can make the brain shrink, what is the fact?

Sitting for too long has become a part of the daily life of many people, especially in the midst of work routines, learning, and other activities that require a prolonged sitting position. However, recent research shows that this sedentary activity can have a negative impact on brain health, especially for individuals aged over 50 years. A collaborative study conducted by Vanderbilt University, University of Pittsburgh, and Seoul National University revealed that the habit of sitting for a long time can cause brain shrinkage and cognitive decline.

Research published in the journal “Alzheimer’s & Dementia” shows that individuals who spend a long time in a position as high as a higher risk of experiencing a decrease in cognitive function. This indicates that even though someone exercises regularly, the long -term effects of excessive sitting can still harm the health of the brain.

The results of this study involved 404 adults aged 50 years and over. Participants were measured their activities using watches that recorded when sitting and lying for seven days. During the next seven years, the activity was associated with the results of the brain scanning and the participant’s cognitive performance. The findings show that increasing sedentary behavior is directly related to cognitive decline and brain shrinkage, regardless of the length of exercise.

The impact of this sitting habit feels increasingly significant for individuals who have genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. Marissa Gogniat, a neurologist from the University of Pittsburgh, explained that reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease is not only related to routine exercise. “Minimizing the time spent sitting, even if you exercise every day, reduce the possibility of Alzheimer’s disease,” he said.

The brain shrinkage identified in this study lasted over the period of seven years. Researchers explore how less active lifestyle habits can affect the possibility of neurodegenerative disease. Thus, it is important for individuals, especially those over 50 years old, to change their lifestyle by reducing the time spent sitting and increasing physical activity.

Various simple steps can be taken to reduce sitting time, such as:

1. Rest regularly: Take a short break every hour to stand, walk around, or stretching.

2. Using an ergonomic sitting position: Make sure the seats and tables are designed to support good posture and facilitate movement.

3. Integrate physical activity: Like walking when calling or approaching coworkers rather than sending messages.

4. Routine exercise: In addition to exercising, try to adopt a more active lifestyle, such as climbing stairs or gardening.

5. Participate in social activities: Follow the class, group, or community activities involving the movement.

The existence of excessive lifestyle is a global health challenge in this modern era. Therefore, increasing awareness and being more proactive in daily activities is an important step towards optimal brain health. This study emphasizes that regulating lifestyles, not only focusing on one aspect such as sports, can make a major contribution to cognitive health in old age.

Efforts to reduce sitting time will be very beneficial for brain health and can help prevent more serious neurological problems in the future. Especially with the increasing proportion of elderly populations, it is important for us to pay more attention to our lifestyle and mental well -being.