- Heavy TV watching in midlife is associated with smaller brain volumes in memory-related areas and smaller frontal and occipital lobes.
- Frequent TV viewers show more white matter damage, which is linked to cognitive decline, dementia, and stroke risk.
- The negative brain changes from TV watching persist even after controlling for factors like physical activity and smoking.
- Other sedentary activities, such as occupational sitting, do not show the same negative associations and may even benefit brain health.
- Men appear more vulnerable to brain changes from both TV watching and work-related sitting.
- The study suggests health recommendations should focus not just on reducing sitting time but also on the type of sedentary activity.