They say laughter is the best medicine when it comes to your health. So it goes without saying that it also must benefit your weight-loss efforts in one way or another. Research indicates that feelings of joy and happiness contribute to changes in the body. Having a good chuckle strengthens the immune system, boosts energy, reduces pain and wards off the ill effects of stress. {relatedarticles}Of course, stress is one of the major contributing factors to obesity because it causes the body to release cortisol, which increases appetite, cravings for sugar and weight gain. While there isn't a vast amount of research on the benefits, one study conducted by Vanderbilt University revealed that laughter can actually burn calories. The study found that 10 to 15 minutes of laughter burned 50 calories.
It ain't much, but it's something. According to WebMD.com, laughter has some very real effects. Putting on a happy face also increases blood flow, boosts the levels of infection-fighting antibodies, lowers blood sugar levels and contributes to better sleep. {relatedarticles}With these benefits, we should all be cracking up. Make room in your life for some good, old-fashioned giddiness. Jumping around from side to side, flexing muscles and sweating out aggression is all part of the fun. Before you get too serious lifting those heavy weights, remember to stop and lift your spirits along the way.