A recent study conducted by researchers from Vanderbilt University and the University of Pittsburgh reveals that prolonged sitting can lead to brain shrinkage and cognitive decline, even among individuals who engage in regular physical exercise. The study, published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia, tracked over 400 adults aged 50 and above over a seven-year period. Participants wore activity monitors to measure their daily sedentary time, and their brain health was assessed through cognitive tests and MRI scans.
Key findings from the study include:
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Independent Risk Factor: Extended periods of sitting were associated with brain shrinkage and cognitive decline, regardless of participants’ levels of physical activity.
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Genetic Vulnerability: The negative effects of sedentary behavior were more pronounced in individuals carrying the APOE-e4 gene, a known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.T
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Affected Brain Regions: Brain shrinkage was observed in areas critical for memory and decision-making, such as the hippocampus and frontal lobes.
These findings suggest that reducing sedentary time throughout the day may be crucial for maintaining brain health, particularly for older adults and those at increased genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
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