Optimistic women live for longer, Study says

**brother** · #1 08-10-2009, 08:40 PM

Women who are optimistic have a lower risk of heart disease and death, an American study shows.

The latest study by US investigators mirrors the findings of earlier work by a Dutch team showing optimism reduces heart risk in men.

The research on nearly 100,000 women, published in the journal Circulation, found pessimists had higher blood pressure and cholesterol.

Even taking these risk factors into account, attitude alone altered risks.

Optimistic women had a 9% lower risk of developing heart disease and a 14% lower risk of dying from any cause after more than eight years of follow-up.

Read more at BBC NEWS | Health | Optimistic women live for longer

**starbirdy66** · #2 08-22-2009, 02:42 PM

I wonder if these are the same women that men should look for when considering a longer life through marriage as recommended by their doctors.

There is certainly a lot to life expectancy when it comes to attitude and spirituality.

**esper_d** · #3 08-24-2009, 03:00 AM

Even if it wasn’t scientifically proven, I would absolutely believe this. When you are negative towards life, you place stress on the body and are more likely to be infected with diseases. You keep your heart and body healthy when you are happy and love life. Or at least healthier than if you hated life.

**AG1976** · #4 08-30-2009, 08:58 PM

I guess I need to work on being more optimistic! Heart disease runs in my family, so I'm trying to do all that I can to prevent this happening to me. When I think about it, my grandmother was a very pessimistic person, and she not only had heart problems but other health issues as well.

**fireladyst2** · #5 10-02-2009, 07:08 PM

I believe this whole heartedly. Sometimes people can get caught up in all the negative things in their life, and that can cause them to become depressed or generally unhappy. It is very hard to stay optimistic, but trying to find good in everything can make a huge difference in how you feel. Everyone should have a little alone time to meditate, or relax to help them relieve their stress. This can really help you with the optimistic outlook!