Laugh Your Way to Better Health

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You may want to give a second thought to the age-old saying that laughter is the best medicine. According to the American Heart Association, laughing may help prevent heart attacks. Allowing your funny bone to be tickled on a regular basis and taking a positive look at life may increase your longevity. Having a more light-hearted life in among the most enjoyable things you can do for your health.

The Not-So-Funny Facts

After evaluating the humor responses of 150 heart patients and 150 healthy people the same age, researchers found that a lack of a sense of humor may have led to heart disease. Researchers were 40 percent less likely to get a response of laughter from the heart patients than from the healthy group, according to a study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions. Exactly how laughter protects your heart isn’t yet clear, but researchers are investigating the hypothesis that the chemicals released in your body from laughter may safeguard the endothelium—a protective lining in your blood vessels.

Is Your Glass Half Full?

In addition, your mental health can affect your physical well-being, too. People with a pessimistic outlook tend to live shorter lives than those with a more positive or optimistic view, according to a study published by the Mayo Clinic. Researchers found that people with an optimistic disposition had a 50 percent decreased risk of dying prematurely. They also experience better overall health, as well as increased energy with less pain and limitations.

Go Ahead, Laugh It Up

The next time you find yourself in a not-so-humorous situation, try to look at the sunny side of life. Throw your head back and have a good chuckle. After all, laughter is good medicine. Plus, who can have a negative outlook on life while laughing?

Sources: www.americanheart.org, www.howstuffworks.com