Can laughing really help you lose weight?
In many recent reports it has been alleged that laughing every day can help maintain a healthier and slimmer body. But how much of this is true? We look at the latest studies surrounding this claim and uncover the truth about the health benefits linked to laughter.
We are already aware that laughing makes the heart beat faster and works many different muscles, but did you know a big belly laugh uses about the same energy as walking more than half a mile, the US study in the International Journal of Obesity suggests.
The researchers measured the number of calories expended by 45 adults as they watched different TV programmes, including nature and comedy shows. Lead researcher Dr Maciej Buchowski, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, reported that bouts of laughter when watching the funny film used up to 20% more energy than at rest.
Researchers estimate that that 10 to15 minutes of laughter a day could increase total energy expenditure by 40 to 170 kJ or burn off between 10 and 40 calories.
Dr Maciej Buchowski, explained: "Participants had 10 to 20 percent higher energy expenditure during episodes of laughter than during rest. We have calculated that the energy cost of 15 minutes of laughter over one year may translate into annual weight loss of 4.5lbs."
But the benefits of laughing don't stop there, Dr. Lee Berk and fellow researcher Dr. Stanley Tan of Loma Linda University in California have been studying the effects of laughter on the immune system. To date their published studies have shown that laughing lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones and boosts immune function. Laughter also triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and produces a general sense of well-being.
So there you have it, not only can laughing really assist weight loss, it can also help reduce stress levels and offer a natural boost to your immune system. For more information on how to achieve a really good, side splitting, belly laugh visit a family wedding or take a trip to a cheesy night club or check out the new craze weeping the nation of 'Stealth Disco.' Visit for all the latest jokes.
Janet Francis Copyright 2007.
