The phrase “laughter is the best medicine,” has been in common use for centuries, and scholars believe it may have origins dating as far back as the Bible, which includes the verse: “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.” Now evidence suggests this may be more than a proverb, as explained in the newest report launched by Newsmax Health.

More information about recent research on laughter as medicine, and current expert opinions, can be found in the full report at https://www.newsmax.com/health/health-news/laughter-exercise-heart/2022/11/02/id/1094561

While everyone knows that laughter makes people feel good, new research showcased in the report has shown the positive effects of laughter on human brains, and several key ways it can help to improve overall health. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, laughter may even mimic the effects of exercise, and provide benefits that are similar to a workout.

“Laughter activates the release of serotonin, the key hormone that stabilizes our mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness… A good belly laugh also increases our number of immune cells and infection fighting-antibodies,” said Dr. David Friedman, chiropractic neurologist, doctor of naturopathy, and bestselling author of the new book Funny Bones.

The new report also explores research from a recent study by Vanderbilt University, which found that laughing can burn a significant amount of calories. In the study, it was shown that the increased heart rate and oxygen consumption caused by regular laughter can act like a brief workout, and one joke can burn as many as 40 calories.

Laughing also increases the diameter of blood vessels in a manner similar to cardio exercise, and the report explains how this can lead to a chain reaction within the body. While it may not feel like exercise, continued laughter causes muscles to contract, heart rate to increase, and a release of endorphins similar to that experienced by runners.

Though laughter has been shown to have exercise-like effects, the report also suggests that the benefits continue even after the laughter has ended. An excerpt from the article reads, “A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving the muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes.”

More information about the health benefits of laughter, Funny Bones by Dr. David Friedman, and recent research on laughter as medicine can be found in the full report, at https://www.newsmax.com/health/health-news/laughter-exercise-heart/2022/11/02/id/1094561

Dr. David Friedman
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