Research indicates: Extended periods of sitting lead to brain atrophy and increase the risk of developing dementia - Prolonged sitting reduces brain size and boosts dementia risk.
Extended Sitting Harmful to Brain Health and Cognitive Performance
Sedentary behavior, including prolonged sitting, appears to have detrimental effects on cognitive performance and dementia risk that cannot entirely be offset by physical activity. Here's what you need to know:
- Cognitive Decline and Brain Shrinkage
Numerous studies have linked extended periods of inactivity to cognitive decline, particularly in areas of the brain prone to Alzheimer's disease, such as the hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in memory and cognition. This negative impact persists even in individuals who meet recommended physical activity guidelines[1][3][4].
- Genetic Susceptibility
Individuals who carry the APOE-e4 gene, a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, may be more vulnerable to these effects. In such individuals, prolonged sitting may result in greater cognitive decline and brain shrinkage compared to non-carriers [1][4].
- Dementia Risk and Neurodegeneration
Extended sitting is associated with an increased risk of neurodegeneration, particularly among older adults. This risk is linked to poorer executive function, memory, and long-term neurodegenerative changes [2][5].
- Sedentary Behavior and Brain Regions
Prolonged sitting has been associated with thinning in brain regions linked to memory and Alzheimer's disease, specifically the frontal and parietal lobes [4].
- Office Jobs and Lifestyle
Given the sedentary nature of many office jobs, reducing prolonged sitting is essential for maintaining cognitive health. Breaking up periods of inactivity throughout the day with regular physical activity or movement can help mitigate cognitive decline and dementia risk [1][5].
- Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle adaptations, such as incorporating more physical activity, are key to reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. While regular exercise is beneficial, minimizing prolonged sitting remains an important strategy for maintaining brain health [5].
In the context of maintaining brain health, vocational training that encourages regular movement during the workday could comprise an essential part of a community policy. Additionally, for holistic health-and-wellness, incorporating fitness-and-exercise and mental-health pursuits, such as vocational training in health sciences like psychology, might be advantageous in mitigating cognitive decline and promoting brain health.
