TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Research from Vanderbilt University's Memory and Alzheimer's Center suggests that sitting for long periods every day, averaging 13 hours, can accelerate brain shrinkage, including the hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in memory function.
Researchers used wrist monitors to measure participants' activities for a full seven days and monitored their brain health over seven years through MRI scans. The results showed that even though most participants regularly exercised for 150 minutes per week, they still experienced brain volume reduction if they sat for too long.
"Reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease is not just about exercising once a day," said Marissa Gogniat, a neurologist from the University of Pittsburgh who participated in the study, as quoted from Science Alert. "Minimizing the time spent sitting, even if you exercise every day, can reduce the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease."
Increased Risk for Carriers of the Alzheimer's Gene
As reported on Earth, the study also found that the impact of prolonged sitting is even worse for those carrying the Alzheimer's risk gene, namely APOE-4. In this group, shrinkage occurs more rapidly and involves areas of the brain that control memory and decision-making, such as the frontal and parietal lobes.
Participants with this gene also showed lower cognitive performance. They were more likely to fail to remember words or quickly recall the names of objects.
One explanation for why prolonged sitting has an impact on the brain is the decrease in blood flow to the brain. Without adequate oxygen and nutrient supply, brain cells struggle to maintain connectivity and regeneration.
Furthermore, prolonged sitting can also increase inflammation in the body, which is another factor believed to accelerate brain cell damage, especially in those with genetic risk factors.
Exercise Cannot Counteract the Effects of Sitting
Researchers note that prolonged sitting is not just about a passive lifestyle, but a habit that causes gradual brain damage. "This study highlights the importance of reducing sitting time, especially among older adults at high risk of developing Alzheimer's disease," said Angela Jefferson from Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
She suggests that people should get into the habit of standing, walking, or stretching regularly throughout the day. Simple things like walking while answering the phone, standing while reading documents, or doing brief stretches every hour can help maintain brain health.
Decreases in brain function and memory are a natural process with age. However, excessive sitting can accelerate this process and increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
The research published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia reinforces the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle, not only through scheduled exercise, but also through physical movement throughout the day.
Editor's Choice: Is Sitting Too Long Really a Trigger for Alzheimer's?
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