Does Laughing Burn Calories?

A 2005 study conducted by Maciej Buchowski, Ph.D., and presented at that year’s Europe Congress on Obesity presented evidence that laughing can aid in weight loss. The study indicated that laughing for 10 to 15 minutes would burn 10 to 40 calories. If this was done each day, it would translate into a weight loss of about 4 pounds (1.8 kg) per year.

More facts about laughing:

• Laughter can provide a mild workout for several systems in the body. The activity involves stretching muscles in the face and neck as well as increasing the rate of breathing. When additional movements, such as waving the arms accompany the laughter, the cardiovascular benefits of laughing are enhanced.


• One study indicated that laughter has a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels. The act of laughing during a two-hour window after consuming a balanced meal promotes healthier blood glucose levels and helps prevent those levels from spiking.


• Laughing also can help relieve stress and promote more restful sleep. People who laugh for several minutes within an hour of retiring for the night report less difficulty remaining asleep through the night.