Laughter Can Boost Heart Health, Experts Say

Columbia cardiologist explains how positivity and joy can lower risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Heart disease is largely preventable through lifestyle changes, and embracing more happiness and laughter can be an important part of a heart-healthy routine, according to experts at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Studies show that positive emotions can improve endothelial function, reduce stress hormones, lower inflammation, and increase good cholesterol - all of which promote cardiovascular health.

Why it matters

Many people don't realize that heart disease risk is heavily influenced by daily habits and behaviors that are within our control. This article highlights how a positive mindset focused on joy and laughter, when combined with other healthy choices, can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues.

The details

Columbia cardiologist Andrew Einstein, MD, PhD, explains that while it's ideal to address all nine major risk factors for heart disease, it's more realistic to start by improving just one area. He notes that being happy is connected to healthier behaviors like eating better and exercising. Laughter and positive emotions can improve endothelial function, relax blood vessels, reduce stress hormones, lower inflammation, and increase good cholesterol - all of which promote cardiovascular health.

  • The article was published on February 11, 2026.

The players

Andrew Einstein

A cardiologist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center who specializes in heart disease prevention.

Columbia University Irving Medical Center

A renowned academic medical center in New York City that conducts research on heart health and other medical topics.

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What they’re saying

“In an ideal world, people would stay on top of all nine risk factors, but it's more realistic to start with one and improve it. Do what you can. Every healthy change will help your heart and can lower your risk for other diseases, like cancer.”

— Andrew Einstein, Cardiologist (Mirage News)

“Heart attacks are largely preventable.”

— Andrew Einstein, Cardiologist (Mirage News)

What’s next

Experts recommend that people focus on incorporating more joy and laughter into their daily lives through activities they enjoy, such as watching uplifting entertainment, spending time with friends, or going for scenic walks. Combining these positive habits with other heart-healthy behaviors like eating well and exercising can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues.

The takeaway

This article underscores that heart disease is largely preventable through lifestyle changes, and that embracing more happiness and laughter can be an important part of a heart-healthy routine. By making small, positive changes to daily habits, people can take meaningful steps to lower their risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems.