AKURAT.CO, Watching too much television in your 40s and above can increase your risk of future brain health problems. Yes, a study conducted by the American Heart Association shows that watching TV excessively can cause a person’s cognitive decline.
Reported Akurat.co from Healthline, this study uses TV viewing activity as a measure of sedentary behavior, namely the time spent sitting. Brain health was then measured by answering questions about viewing habits, completing cognitive tests, and undergoing brain MRI scans.
The researchers found that people who watched moderate or excessive (high) amounts of TV experienced greater cognitive decline and a reduction in gray matter in their brains. Gray matter is a major component of the central nervous system, which plays an important role in processing information to the brain. It is involved in decision making, hearing and vision and muscle control.
Researchers have also found that physical activity or exercise is not enough to overcome the negative effects of watching television, however, that does not mean you should stop exercising. Because, exercise itself has many benefits for the body.
Regarding the results of this study, Heather Snyder, PhD, vice president of the Alzheimer’s Association, said that this study does not prove causation. Therefore, he hopes for further research on this matter.
“This adds to similar research that shows a link between watching television and cognitive decline later in life but doesn’t prove cause-and-effect,” Snyder told Healthline.
“Further research is needed to understand this relationship,” he added.
Snyder continued, the most important thing that can be drawn from this research is to consider what activities can replace watching television. Synder suggests choosing activities that you really like and can do in the long run.
Following Akurat.co summarizes the physical activity recommended by the American Heart Association:
- Brisk walking (at least 4.5 km per hour).
- Water aerobics.
- Dance.
- Gardening.
- Tennis (double).
- Cycling under 10 miles per hour.
You can also try more intense activities such as:
- Climb the hill with a heavy backpack.
- Run.
- Swimming.
- Aerobic dance.
- Strenuous gardening activities such as digging or hoeing.
- Tennis (singles).
- Cycling 10 miles per hour or more.
- Jump rope.
You can also choose to engage in more sedentary activities that stimulate brain function, such as knitting, solving crossword puzzles, or playing a musical instrument.[]
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