Michael Mosley says daily dose of laughter can sharpen memory

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Michael Mosley has explained how a daily dose of laughter can sharpen your memory and even improve heart health.The health expert, famous for his creation of the Fast 800 and 5:2 diets, has released a new podcast episode called Have a Laugh - where he discussed how a good belly chortle can actually improve your health.The diet guru said: "For starters, laughing increases your uptake of oxygen rich air which stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles and increases the release of endorphins - also known as feel good hormones, which promote social bonding."Studies show that people who share a laugh over a funny video like each other more and have a better sense of connection with each other."Michael also explained how a study from Oxford University said that laughing more often can actually increase your tolerance for pain.He explained: "This boost in endorphins could also explain why a really good laugh can increase your pain tolerance.

A few years ago, researchers from Oxford University tested the pain thresholds of volunteers. One group of volunteers watched 15 minutes for comedy, like Mr.

Bean or Friends, while the other group watched boring golf programs."The volunteers who had a really good belly laugh, were able to withstand 10 per cent more pain afterwards, while those who just tittered saw no change."More studies have shown that having a good cackle with friends or by yourself can actually have a positive impact on your memory as well.On the podcast, Michael said: "If you are forgetful than you might like to know that laugh can help boost your memory.

A study from Loma Linda University in the US found that watching a 20 minute comedy video enhanced short term memory in older adults. "Why?