Study Shows Laughter Really IS the Best Medicine

You've probably heard the phrase "Laughter is the best medicine" many times, I'm sure. Turns out that statement might be more than just a saying.

According to Fox CT, researchers have found that laughter can help with healing. Dr. Michael Miller of the University Of Maryland School Of Medicine explained that studies have suggested that laughing can help to lower your blood pressure.

Laughing might even help you fight the common cold or infections. Dr. Miller explains,

“There have been other investigators who have shown it may have an effect on immune response, so perhaps better response from someone who has a common cold or infections when they laugh.”

So, why would laughing help you heal?

Researchers say they found that when you really laugh it opens up your blood vessels and that causes less stress on your heart. Not only that, but they found laughing releases endorphins from the brain, which helps to keep the stress low on the rest of your body.

When you get stressed, the brain can overload with chemicals and that could result in high blood pressure or worse, a stroke or heart attack. Dr. Miller says you can easily counteract a stressful response with laughter.

According to the research, 15 minutes of good belly laughter is as important for your heart as exercising for 30 minutes a day, three days a week. They're not saying to quit your gym, just to add some good laughing in during the week.

So surround yourself with the loved ones that you enjoy being around, because research also shows that people with a strong friend base are healthier, both mentally and physically. Even more reason to make time to go out for a fun time with your friends!

Listen to Liz Kaye weekdays from 10-2 on 105.5 FM, online at kicks1055.com/listen-live/ or by downloading the radioPup app for your mobile device.