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Valentine's Day: Good for the Heart

Cupid's Arrow

The word "love" has stumped people for ages. It has made people feel like they're floating or become crybabies upon hearing a certain song. It has also made otherwise sensible people do crazy things.

Yet, as mysterious a force love is, there seems to be no surprise that it is capable of many, many things.

How about improving heart health? As ludicrous as it may sound—yes—there is proof that it can do that, too, and more.

"The evidence is very strong that good relationships have health benefits," says Blair Justice, PhD, professor emeritus of psychology at the University of Texas School of Public Health.

According to Justice, various investigators have looked into different types of relationships (i.e. marriage, family, and friendship), and have shown that love can:
  • Help prevent plaque buildup in the arteries
  • Protect against heart disease
  • Boost levels of antibodies in the body
  • Reduce levels of stress chemicals, which can damage the immune system
  • Lower risk of disease in general
  • Decrease risk of early death
  • Lengthen life


As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.

SOURCES: Susan Moores, RD, spokeswoman, American Dietetic Association. Joe Vinson, professor of chemistry, University of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Cynthia Sass, RD, spokeswoman, ADA. Holly Novak, MD, director, prevention and women's health, Prairie Cardiovascular, Springfield, Ill. Blair Justice, PhD, professor emeritus of psychology, University of Texas School of Public Health. Carol Rinkleib Ellison, PhD, author, Women's Sexualities; psychologist, private practice. American Heart Association. American College of Cardiology.

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