Did you know laughter is good for your heart?

A study was brought to public light at the European Society of Cardiology at Amsterdam.

26 patients, mostly old aged and some middle aged, but having a common link of having been affected by heart diseases were a part of the study. The study was conducted by the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre in Brazil.

The patients were divided into 2 groups. One was given the task of watching a 2-hour comedy show over the weekend. The other group watched documentaries on politics and conservation of nature.

The comparative study of the 2 groups indicated that those who saw the comedy show demonstrated a 10% improved performance with regard to their heart’s ability to pump oxygen. Even in terms of expansion of arteries this group had better results. The reason for this is speculated to be the positive impact laughter has on reducing inflammation in the hearts of the patients. However there has been a recognition of the fact among doctors that this study would need to have larger sample size and more in depth analysis to understand the dynamics more clearly so as to implement laughter therapy more effectively.

“Laughter helps the heart because it releases endorphins, which reduce inflammation and helps the heart and blood vessels relax. It also reduces the levels of stress hormones, which place strain on the heart,” lead author of the study Professor Marco Saffi said as quoted by The Guardian.