Laughter is a good medicine. According to the British newspaper Daily Star, the latest research suggests that today's "couch potatoes" can lose weight while sitting on the sofa, because laughter is a good weight loss trick.
Researchers say that an hour of hearty laughter can burn 100-120 calories, increasing energy by more than 20%. This is equivalent to 40 minutes of vacuuming, 15-20 minutes of walking, or 18-27 minutes of dumbbell exercises. This suggests that a good sitcom could help you lose 1-2 pounds (approximately 0.45-0.9 kg) per month.
Dr. Helen Pilcher, who led the new study, said, "Laughter increases heart rate and promotes blood flow. Laughter allows you to inhale more oxygen. Moreover, the constant rise and fall of the chest provides a good workout for the abdominal muscles, which is why people often say 'I laughed until my stomach hurts.' However, it takes 18 hours of laughter to burn off the calories from a large meal."
Researchers suggest that watching your favorite comedy shows can help you lose weight without even realizing it, as you laugh heartily.
