Does pacing help when trying to solve a difficult problem? Does it improve brain function? We already know that sitting for long periods of time can have negative health consequences. If so does standing have the opposite effect on our health? In a study published by the
University of California, sedentary behavior resulted in reduced thickness of the medial temporal lobe of the brain. This is the area that is critical for memory and learning. The study included 35 participants ages 45 to 70. Preexisting conditions and psychiatric disorders were screened out. These participants were asked about their activity levels and the amount of time they spent sitting. After taking MRI scans of the medial temporal lobes, there was a correlation in the thickness of this area in relation to the levels of sitting as opposed to standing. The group that had the thinnest medial temporal lobe was the group that did the most sitting. The study also found that the level of exercise did not have as great an effect as the level of standing.
https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/taking-stand-against-prolonged-sitting