Cerebrovascular function response to prolonged sitting combined with a high-glycemic index meal: A double-blind, randomized cross-over trial

Acute prolonged sitting leads to cerebrovascular disruptions. However, it is unclear how prolonged sitting interacts with other common behaviors, including high- (HGI) and low-glycemic index (LGI) meals. Using a double-blind randomized cross-over design, this study evaluated the effects of prolonged (3 hr) sitting, with a high- (HGI; GI: 100) or low-glycemic index (LGI; GI: 19) meal on total brain blood flow (Q_Brain) and executive function. Eighteen young, healthy, active participants (22.6 [3.1] y, 33% F, 24.3 [3.7] kg/m²) sat for 3 hr after consuming an HGI or LGI meal. Using Doppler ultrasound to measure internal carotid (ICA) and vertebral (VA) artery blood flow, Q_Brain was calculated: (ICA blood flow + VA blood flow) × 2. Executive function was assessed using the Stroop Test and Trail Making Test—Part B. Brain fog was measured using a modified Borg Category Scale with Ratio properties (CR10). Following 3 hr of sitting, there was a significant decrease in Q_Brain with time (p =.001, ES = −0.26), though there were nonsignificant interaction (p =.216) and condition effects (p =.174). Brain fog increased (p =.024, ES = 0.27) and Stroop reaction time worsened with time (p =.001, ES: −0.40), though there were nonsignificant condition effects for brain fog (p =.612) and the Stroop test (p =.445). There was a nonsignificant condition effect (p =.729) for the Trail Making Test—Part B, but completion time improved with time (p =.001, ES = −0.40). In conclusion, 3 hr of prolonged sitting decreases Q_Brain and executive function independent of glycemic index in young, healthy adults.