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  10:58pm EST, 11/07/09
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Happiness and Forgiveness May Extend Life



by KYW's medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough

At the turn of the 19th century a book was written by a physician trained at that time with the best that medical knowledge could offer and a key part of the book was the concept that happiness and the ability to forgive others and live in harmony could lead to a long and healthy life.
 
At the time we did not know about hormones like cortisol, the stress hormone, but as we look at the complex relationship between our brain and our body it is becoming abundantly clear that the words written over a hundred years ago are true. We definitely do not thrive under negative energy and stress.  Excessive cortisol levels can raise blood pressure and add to increased levels of anxiety.  The long term wear and tear can clearly take its toll and we can measure a direct relationship between hormone release and cardiac changes.
 
The doctors of that day used physical exams and observation to make their conclusions and, in many cases, it worked.

 
 
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KYW medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough gives his weekly dose of health information. (3:53)
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