TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The results of the study show that people who watching television in moderate or excessive amounts experience greater cognitive decline and reduced gray matter in the brain later in life. Gray matter is involved in decision making, hearing and vision, and muscle control.
The researchers also found that the positive effects of physical activity were not enough to counter the negative effects of watching television. But that doesn’t mean we have to stop exercising. From the data, they calculated that each 1 hour increase in average daily TV viewing time was associated with a 0.5 percent reduction in gray matter volume.
The American Heart Association says science has linked inactivity and too much sitting to a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, colon and lung cancer, and premature death.
“This work adds to similar research showing an association between television viewing and cognitive decline later in life but does not prove causation.” Healthline.
“Further research is needed to understand this relationship,” he added. “For example, is there something about watching TV or does watching more TV mean being less active?”
The most important thing to take from this research is to consider what else can be done besides watching television. Watching TV is measured by how much content is consumed during leisure time:
-Rarely watch television
-While (sometimes)
-High (often/very often)
Choose activities that we know are good for heart, brain and body health. “A growing body of research suggests getting more exercise, eating a balanced diet, and engaging socially and cognitively can reduce the risk of cognitive decline,” he said.
In other words, activities that support holistic health today may be the key to protecting brain health in the years to come. To reduce TV viewing volume, choose an activity you enjoy so you are more likely to continue choosing it over watching TV in the long run. For example, aerobic or more vigorous and intense activities such as running or climbing a hill.
You can also choose to engage in more sedentary activities that stimulate brain function, including knitting, doing crossword puzzles, or playing a musical instrument. Whatever you do, the next time you reach for the remote, consider brain health 20 years from now and ask yourself if this is the healthiest use of my time.
Also read: 4 Activities You Can Do While Self-Isolating at Home
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