New York, USA – A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association warns that feeling anger for as little as eight minutes a day could significantly increase the risk of experiencing a cardiac event. The study involved 280 healthy young adults with no history of heart disease or other chronic conditions. Participants were subjected to various emotional tasks to evaluate the impact on their heart health.
During the study, participants who recalled anger-inducing memories experienced a 50% reduction in blood vessel dilation within 40 minutes, increasing their vulnerability to heart attacks or strokes. Dr. Daichi Shimbo, the lead author of the study, emphasized the potential long-term damage of chronic anger on arteries. Anxiety and sadness did not produce the same adverse effects on blood vessel function.
Experts like Dr. Elizabeth Sharp highlighted the link between anger and increased cortisol levels, which can elevate blood pressure and impair vascular dilation. Dr. Jim Liu also emphasized the importance of psychosocial factors in cardiovascular health, noting that anger can have immediate and long-term effects on blood vessel function.
The study suggests that managing anger is crucial for heart health. Strategies like recognizing triggers, relaxing through meditation, altering thought patterns, getting physically active, and seeking professional help can help individuals cope with anger in a healthier manner. By addressing anger issues and implementing effective coping mechanisms, individuals can reduce their risk of heart-related complications.
Overall, the study sheds light on the significant impact of anger on cardiovascular health, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health and emotional well-being as part of a holistic approach to heart disease prevention. The findings underscore the need for individuals to find healthy ways to manage anger to protect their heart health in the long run.