from University of Alabama Birmingham and American Heart Association
Much of the research on effects of television viewing has focused on children, but new research suggests moderate to high viewing times during middle age is associated with cognitive decline later in life. While studies have shown the benefits of exercise to support brain health, less is known about the potential consequences of prolonged sedentary behavior on brain function. Multiple studies presented to the American Heart Association deal with sedentary versus physically active lifestyles. In one, researchers at the University of Alabama Birmingham reported participants who said they sometimes or very often watched TV during midlife had suggested brain deterioration in late life, compared to those who said they seldom watched TV while in middle age.