Social Health
Having friends starts with being a friend. Pick up the phone and call someone you haven’t talked to in a while. Take someone to lunch. Ask a stranger how their day is going.
A good friend can add spice to life and know just how to put a smile on your face. More than that, friends can act as buffers in your life by minimizing stress and protecting your heart health.
* A healthy social life may help to stabilize blood pressure and boost your immune system.
* Strong social relationships may help you reduce inflammation in your body – a risk factor for heart disease.
* People may be more likely to adopt healthy habits, such as starting a heart-healthy diet, when they’re doing it with friends.
© American Institute for Preventive Medicine