Seriously Funny Medicine
Dr Peter Spitzer our co-founder and Medical Director writes about Humour in Health and the unique work of the Clown Doctors.
Sick Children's perceptions of Clown Doctor Humour
Clowns and their humour have entertained human beings for centuries. As yet, the literature fails to demonstrate significant research evidence based on the efficacy of clown humour as a therapy within children's hospitals/units. Despite this, many health professionals, with an interest in both the psychological and physical aspects of a patient's well-being, are showing an increased interest in the use of clown humour within health-care settings.
Laughter and Diabetes: How sweet it is
A chuckle may help the body process blood sugar, according to research from Japan. A study of type 2 diabetes – the most common form of the disease – found that laughter was linked to lower blood sugar levels after a meal.
Natural Killer Cells
It is recognised that stress weakens the immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illness. But now research is showing that individuals with a better sense of humour have stronger immune systems and how important it is to make the effort to improve your sense of humour. The best evidence that humour boosts the immune system comes from studies where immune system measures are taken before and after a particular humorous event – usually a comedy video.
Heart Attacks
Laughter, along with an active sense of humour, can help protect against heart attacks. We know that looking after our heart involves diet, exercise, freedom from smoking and reduced stress.
Psychoneuroimmunology
Did you know that there is an area of medicine that looks at the connection between the mind, nervous system and immunology? It's called psychoneuroimmunology.