Study shows laughter reduces heart disease risk

Study shows laughter reduces heart disease risk

”Laughter really might be the best medicine, according to a study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology. Dr Lee Berk and Dr Loma Linda University’s cardiologists monitored 6,116 patients over an eight-year period and found that those who had laugh sessions at least three times a week were up to 32% less likely to develop heart disease than those who didn’t. So, next time you’re feeling down, look at the funny side of things—it may save your life!”

The benefits were seen in both genders but were more pronounced in men compared to women. So, if you’re looking for new ways to reduce your risk factors for heart disease, adding laughter into your life may be a healthy way to start!

If you’re struggling to find reasons to laugh, try going for a walk or taking a jog. In addition to helping you burn calories and stay in shape, exercise can have a positive impact on your mood, which is great news for those suffering from depression or anxiety. Additionally, exercising outside can also help boost your mood by exposing you to fresh air and sunlight—both are proven mood boosters.

Laughter truly is the best medicine: According to one recent study published in The Journal of Neuroscience, laughing out loud causes blood vessels to expand and relax, allowing blood flow throughout your body to increase. This helps lower blood pressure and improves circulation—which may reduce heart disease risk. So go ahead and crack up! Just make sure you’re doing it for all the right reasons: Your health (and waistline) will thank you later!

So why not get a little joy in your life by spending some time with someone who makes you smile? Sharing a good laugh will make both of you feel good.

What are you waiting for? Go ahead and share a few laughs today. Your health (and maybe even your life) may depend on it.

The bottom line:
Laughter isn’t always just fun—it can actually be good medicine too!

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