Brazilian scientists from the University of Sao Paulo concluded that a sedentary lifestyle without mental stress is associated with an increased risk of developing depression. However, sedentary activities that require a person to challenge their cognitive abilities do not have the same effect. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Journal of Affective Disorders (JAD).
Experts analyzed survey data on the health and development of 4,607 people. Its participants answered questions about how much time they spent watching TV, at work, and driving. The volunteers’ waist circumference and body C-reactive protein and glycosylated hemoglobin levels were also measured.
The analysis showed that a passive lifestyle without mental stress increased the risk of depression by 43%. Scientists attributed this to the fact that sitting in front of a screen also contributes to obesity, which increases the amount of inflammation in body tissues.
“Although physical activity guidelines recommend reducing and stopping sedentary behavior, our findings suggest that mental health guidelines may focus on reducing mental inactivity and sedentary time,” the report’s authors said.
Scientists also noted that losing weight contributes to a more effective prevention of depression.
Previous scientists I learnedHow do fast food and other low-nutrient foods affect the human brain?