According to a study published in the scientific journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia<\/i>, individuals who watched television “very frequently” in midlife exhibit a reduction years later in the volume of brain regions responsible for memory, visual processing, and executive functions.<\/p>\n
Scientists from the University of Southern California (USC) analyzed data from over 1,700 adults whose health was monitored for more than 20 years. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed that heavy TV viewers also exhibit white matter damage, which is directly linked to aging, stroke risk, cognitive decline, and early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.<\/p>\n
These changes persisted even after accounting for factors such as physical activity, diabetes, smoking, and weight. Most strikingly, a sedentary lifestyle alone did not prove to be the primary cause of this process. The study showed that other types of sedentary activities, such as sitting at an office desk, do not have a similar negative impact on the brain.<\/p>\n
Moreover, among those who spend a significant amount of time sitting at a desk at work, certain parts of the brain were found to be healthier. According to the scientists, this is because the brain is intellectually engaged during work. The study also revealed that men are far more vulnerable than women to the negative changes caused by television viewing.<\/p>\n