Dogs: The Key to Better Mental and Physical Health?
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There’s no doubting the benefits of dog ownership. Dogs provide us with companionship, love, and loyalty. But did you know that dogs can also improve your mental and physical health?
Studies show that dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without dogs. Dog owners also have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and they are more likely to survive a heart attack.
But it’s not just the physical health benefits of dog ownership that are impressive.
Dogs can also improve your mental health. Dog owners have lower levels of anxiety and stress and are more likely to experience feelings of happiness, joy, and love.
It’s no secret that dog owners tend to be happier and healthier than those who don’t have pups, but did you know that there are actual scientifically-proven health benefits to owning a dog?
Here are just a few ways that dogs can improve your mental and physical health
Mental Health
Dogs are known for their loyalty, companionship, and ability to provide us with unconditional love. They provide us with comfort and a sense of security, and remind us that we are never truly alone.
But did you know that dogs can also have a positive impact on our mental health?
Reduce stress:
There have been numerous studies conducted on the subject, and the results show that dogs can indeed improve our mental health in a number of ways.
One of the main reasons people get dogs is for companionship, and it turns out that cuddling up with your furry friend can actually help to reduce stress levels.
For example, dogs can help to reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine (which are the “happy” chemicals in our brains).
One study found that spending just 10 minutes petting a dog can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) levels in humans.
Reduce anxiety:
For those who suffer from anxiety, dogs can provide a sense of calm and security. The simple act of petting a dog has been shown to reduce anxiety levels.
In fact, dogs are so effective at reducing anxiety that they are often used as therapy animals in hospitals and mental health facilities.
Not to mention, many are now certified therapy dogs to aid in helping people with their anxiety throughout their daily life.
Cure loneliness:
For those who suffer from loneliness, dogs can provide companionship and a sense of connection. Numerous studies have shown that dog owners are more likely to experience social connectedness and less likely to feel lonely than those without dogs.
In fact, dog ownership has been linked to increased levels of oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone” that promotes bonding.
This companionship can be particularly beneficial for those who are experiencing loneliness or isolation.
Help with depression:
For those who suffer from depression, dogs can provide a sense of purpose and meaning.
Caring for a dog can help give structure to the day and provide a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Dogs also provide unconditional love and acceptance, which can be a powerful antidote to feelings of worthlessness and despair.
Dogs can also help to increase our social interaction and boost our self-esteem. For many people, their dog is their best friend, and they enjoy spending time with them.
Additionally, dogs also provide us with a sense of purpose and responsibility, which can be extremely helpful for those suffering from depression or anxiety.
If you are struggling with mental health, consider getting a dog. The benefits are well-documented and just might change your life for the better.
Physical Health
There are countless benefits to owning a dog, including improving your physical health. From daily walks to playing fetch, spending time with your furry friend can help you get active and improve your overall well-being.
Boost immunity:
According to a study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, dog owners have higher levels of a protein called immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps to boost immunity and fight off infection.
Dogs have been shown to lower stress levels and improve moods, both of which can help to boost immunity. In addition, dogs can also help to ward off colds and flu by acting as a “germ magnet.”
In fact, one study found that dog owners over the age of 65 were less likely to die from any causes than their peers who did not own dogs.
So, if you’re looking for a natural way to boost your immunity, spending time with your furry friend may be the key.
Improve heart health:
Owning a dog can help to improve your heart health. One study found that dog owners had a significantly lower risk of dying from a heart attack than those who didn’t have dogs.
In fact, simply petting a dog has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate.
Increase fitness levels:
Research has shown that dog owners are less likely to suffer from obesity than people without dogs.
Dogs encourage us to be more active because they need to be exercised, which means that dog owners tend to get more exercise than those who don’t have dogs. Walking your dog is a great way to get some fresh air and get your heart pumping.
Regular physical activity is vital for maintaining a healthy heart. Walking or running with a dog can be a great way to get some exercise. Dogs also provide us with an excuse to get outside and explore our surroundings.
Studies have shown that time spent in nature can decrease stress levels and improve heart health.
Lower blood pressure:
A recent study found that people with high blood pressure who owned dogs had lower blood pressure levels than those who didn’t have dogs.
Dogs can help to lower your blood pressure by providing companionship and love.
They can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to high blood pressure. Owning a dog can also help to increase your physical activity level, which, again, can lead to lower blood pressure.
As you can see, there are plenty of beneficial reasons to own a dog.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your mental and physical health, consider getting a furry friend.
Not only will you be getting a loyal companion, you’ll also be getting a proven health benefit in the form of four-legged friend. The benefits of canine companionship are well worth it.