It seems to be happy is also good for the heart. Scientists have long known that people very nervous and they are often uncomfortable, anxious or depressed have a higher risk of having a heart attack.
WASHINGTON (AP) seems to be happy is also good for the heart.Scientists
have long known that people very nervous and they are often
uncomfortable, anxious or depressed have a higher risk of having a heart
attack.
Now Harvard University conducted a review on the other side of the coin on the psychological theory, and concluded that the good cheer and optimism have the ability to help protect against heart disease.
Instead of engaging only see how to reduce heart risks, "could also be useful to focus on how we can strengthen the positive side of things," said researcher Julia Boehm, School of Public Health at Harvard.
Boehm analyzed dozens of studies examining the influence it has on heart health a positive attitude, as measured by psychological factors. The key seems particularly optimistic because several studies found that the most optimistic had half the risk of first heart attack than less optimistic, said Boehm.
Previous studies show that the stress associated with negative psychological traits can cause damage to arteries and the heart.
Boehm found that people with a better sense of well-being tend to have healthier levels of blood pressure, cholesterol and weight, plus it is most common exercise, lead a healthier diet, sleep well and avoid smoking.
But he warned that need further investigation to distinguish whether the positive attitude makes people feel more prepared to take steps heart healthy, or healthier living contributes to a more positive outlook.
The new study, funded by Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, was published Tuesday in the journal Psychological Bulletin.
Now Harvard University conducted a review on the other side of the coin on the psychological theory, and concluded that the good cheer and optimism have the ability to help protect against heart disease.
Instead of engaging only see how to reduce heart risks, "could also be useful to focus on how we can strengthen the positive side of things," said researcher Julia Boehm, School of Public Health at Harvard.
Boehm analyzed dozens of studies examining the influence it has on heart health a positive attitude, as measured by psychological factors. The key seems particularly optimistic because several studies found that the most optimistic had half the risk of first heart attack than less optimistic, said Boehm.
Previous studies show that the stress associated with negative psychological traits can cause damage to arteries and the heart.
Boehm found that people with a better sense of well-being tend to have healthier levels of blood pressure, cholesterol and weight, plus it is most common exercise, lead a healthier diet, sleep well and avoid smoking.
But he warned that need further investigation to distinguish whether the positive attitude makes people feel more prepared to take steps heart healthy, or healthier living contributes to a more positive outlook.
The new study, funded by Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, was published Tuesday in the journal Psychological Bulletin.
