Finally, something that feels good is actually good for you too. I've written about the benefits of laughter before, but scientists have recently discovered another reason to giggle more often.

In a study of 32 healthy men, researchers at Loma Linda University and Oakcrest Health Research Institute in Yucaipa, CA found that those who were exposed to something funny - like a comedic video - had 27 percent more beta-endorphins and 87 percent more human growth hormone in their blood. But here's the really good news: this hormonal increase was present even before the funny program began and it remained elevated even after the video was over.

Laughter has already been linked to a decrease of the stress hormones cortisol and epinephrine, but now it's clear that a hearty chuckle can also increase the presence of beneficial hormones in the body.

More and more doctors are acknowledging the good that can come from a guffaw.

"Laughter has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Blood pressure is lowered overall and resting heart rate decreases. Additionally, the immune system appears to get tuned up," said Lee Berk of Loma Linda University in a Los Angeles Times interview. "We should become more serious about laughter."

[via Los Angeles Times]

Image: bbc.co.uk