Here's another reason dogs are man's best friend: They help reduce the risk of heart disease and keep you healthy. The American Heart Association says so, explaining that owning a pet, especially a dog, probably also means having a healthier heart, as well as bigger, metaphorically speaking.
He is about to end up run over, his mother saves him
Here's another reason dogs are man's best friend: help reduce the risk of heart disease and to stay healthy. We had already said that, but now the confirmation comes fromAmerican Heart Association, which explains how owning a pet, especially a dog, probably means having a healthier, as well as bigger heart, metaphorically speaking.
Among the benefits, the association mainly mentions "compulsory" physical exercise: 4-legged owners walk more and more often and are 54% more likely to reach recommended level of daily physical activity. Not only that: they would also enjoy generally lower blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as suffer less from obesity.
Are only dogs good for you? "The strongest data - has explained the lead author of the report, Glenn Levine - are those related to dogs, but we do not want in any way to diminish the benefits that can come from having other pets such as cats. A number of studies have shown positive effects from having goats, fish, monkeys and even reptiles. An experiment showed a benefit in the cardiovascular response to stress even from playing with a virtual animal on video ”.
Anyone who has a pet, the American Heart Association continues, copes better with even stressful situations. Probably due to the influence on the production of the hormone cortisol. Or, perhaps, simply “when you have an animal you are happier - concludes Levine-. But we certainly don't want to send the message to people to go and adopt stray dogs and then end up on the sofa watching television and smoking. The key is always a healthy lifestyle ". Finally, of course the experts recommend that you don't get a pet just to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Roberta Ragni
READ also:
- Pets are good for the heart. As long as you fight for them
- 5 ways to stay fit with your dog
