Heart Benefits Of A Hearty Laugh

Laughter is contagious. But don’t worry about spreading it around. Growing research suggests that regularly getting your giggles going offers several health benefits beyond the emotional ones. Specially, laughing appears to:

INCREASE BLOOD FLOW - Researchers measured the blood-moving capacity of arteries in a one year of heart attack patients. Those who watched comedies for 30 minutes a day were “less likely” to suffer a second heart attack than those who did not watch funny videos.

LOWER BLOOD SUGAR - People with type 2 diabetes maintain better blood sugar-control after watching comic performances. A study of 10 people with the condition suggests that might stem from beneficial changes in immune regulation that prevent damaging inflammation from undermining blood-sugar control.

REGULATE THE IMMUNE SYSTEM - Laughter significantly reduced levels of inflammation trigging cytokines in people with rheumatoid arthritis, people with asthma become more resistant to flare-ups, those with allergies suffer fewer symptoms, and children with allergic skin rashes sleep more easily. A good laugh might also stimulate production of disease-fighting T cells and natural killer cells.

BURN CALORIES - Laughing boosts energy expenditure by 10 to 20 percent and 15 minutes of hearty laughter could burn up to 40 calories, enough to shed more than 4 pounds if done daily.

EASE PAIN - Laughter contracts and relaxes muscles in the abdomen, face and shoulders, which might ease muscles tension and spasms that contribute to pain. And the temporary distraction helps too.

Recommendation: While 4-year olds laugh about every 4 minutes, adult do it about once an hour. So spend time each day having fun. Trade jokes, watch comedies, horse around with your kids or grandkids, or share a laugh while in line at the grocery store. It will brighten your day-and maybe provide a much appreciated dose of mirthful medicine.

Goodnight everyone! cheers!