Falling about laughing 'can burn as many calories as a brisk walk'
Baku, January 22, AZERTAC
Collapsing into giggles could burn as many calories as a brisk walk, according to scientists.
Even a sneaky snigger could give your muscles a workout, burning around ten calories an hour, a study found.
Dr Helen Pilcher, a comedian who has a PhD in biology, reviewed research on the dietary effects of laughter.
Her results showed that the most intense form of laughing - defined as flat out, uncontrollable, roll on the floor howling - was found to burn 120 calories an hour, similar to the amount burnt by walking at a moderate pace.
Hearty belly laughs can burn up to 100 calories per hour, while irrepressible chuckling can burn up to 20 calories per hour.
And a good laugh can help you to tone your stomach - meaning you could be honing your abs while sitting on the sofa watching TV.
Scientists have discovered that one group of muscles, the internal obliques, which are important for creating a ‘six pack’, are activated more by cackling than by stomach crunches.
Having a good guffaw also boosts blood flow, contributing to a cardiovascular workout that uses energy and so burns calories.
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