Having a pet can help you keep your heart healthy, boost mood and keep blood sugar in check
Studies have shown that a pet can help in lowering bad cholesterol, improving mood, and even determine blood sugar levels.
For people who have pets, they are family. Pets have the ability to make you feel loved, no matter who you are, and what you do. When you come back home to your pet, after a long or bad day, they are very likely to put a smile on your face and make you happier.
Research has shown that having a pet not only makes you feel better but may, in fact, also benefit your health. Here are 5 health benefits of keeping a pet that will make you want to get one, or go give the ones you already have a big hug.
Reduces stress
A 2002 study has found that in stressful situations, people feel less stressed in the presence of their pet, instead of a family member or a friend. Stress is one of the leading causes and risk factors of many health diseases like obesity, thyroid imbalance, diabetes and heart problems. Reducing and managing stress is the key to keep a healthy body and mind.
Good for the heart
Not only does look at your pet being adorable makes your heart go mushy, having your pet around is actually very good for your heart. Heart diseases are a leading cause of death all around the world, and one heart condition that increases your risk of cardiovascular diseases is hypertension or high blood pressure. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, USA, having a pet can help in lowering blood pressure, especially in high-risk patients. Owning a pet can also contribute to lowering the bad cholesterol in the body, one of the main culprits of heart diseases.
Mood booster
People who have a pet need no explanation when it comes to this health benefit. Having a pet around can instantly boost your mood. Pets are even used as therapy for people to feel better, more relaxed and loved. According to studies, having a pet can also help you socialize more with people you will actually like. This can also help boost your mood and help you make good friends.
Can determine your blood sugar levels
Surprisingly, a pet may be able to determine your blood sugar levels and you can see that in the way they react around you. According to a 1992 study, pets – which includes dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits, react differently when they notice chemical changes in the body of the diabetic human. These chemical changes occur when the blood sugar drops to dangerously low levels. Apart from your regular symptoms of low blood sugar, your pet may also tell you when you need to do something about your low blood sugar levels.
- 30-Sep-2019
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