Heavy TV watching associated with smaller brain structures, study finds

2 days ago

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.

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