If you’re always looking on the bright side of life, you could be giving your heart health a boost as a result, new research reveals.
Having a positive outlook could have cardiovascular benefits as there is a link between optimism and heart health, according to a study by researchers at the University of Illinois.
For the study, researchers surveyed 5,100 adults, from the ages of 45 to 84 and found that participants who had a more positive and happier mental state were twice as likely to have great cardiovascular health. Not only that, but they also found those who were more optimistic had better blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels and BMI scores.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the CDC, but many forms of heart disease can be prevented or treated with healthy lifestyle choices.
So, while exercising and eating healthy are major factors in maintaining heart health and preventing future heart issues, the study highlights that the simple act of feeling positive has an impact. So keep that glass half full and you heart will be full too!
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