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How Pets Improve Your Health
You’ve probably heard that eating fish is healthy for you. But did you know that keeping fish as pets can help you feel better too? Researchers have discovered that people who watch fish swim in an aquarium for 20 minutes experience significantly lower blood pressure. As a matter of fact, a finned or furry friend can help improve your health in a variety of ways.
While it’s no secret that dog owners enjoy the cardiovascular benefits of daily dog walks, cat owners also seem to have healthier hearts. Studies have shown that a friendly pet can reduce anxiety, help lower blood pressure and moderate levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. Researchers believe that, much like yoga or meditation, pets may help to calm us mentally and physically by diverting our attention from stressful situations. The simple, rhythmic motion of petting an animal may play a part in relaxing us too.
Having a pet around may even improve your immune system function. Pet owners report a significant reduction in such minor health problems as colds, headaches and hay fever. Moreover, studies show, young children, particularly infants, have a reduced risk of developing allergies and asthma when a furry pet is part of the family.
And pets, ideal companions for many single people, may also relieve feelings of loneliness and depression, offering their owners, especially seniors, the pleasure of companionship and a renewed sense of purpose. Regular time spent with a pet, whether your own or a friend’s, may be just the right prescription for a healthier and happier life.
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