A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology has found that losing teams raise the risk of infarction by almost a third. The study, carried out over a four-year period, looked at the relationship between sports teams and heart health.
The Study
The study involved 2,096 people in their 40s and 50s who had no previous history of heart disease. The participants were followed for four years and were asked about their sports fandom.
They were divided into three groups: those who supported winning teams (33%), losing teams (22%), and those who were neutral (45%).
Over the course of the study, 40 people experienced a heart attack or were diagnosed with angina. The analysis found that those who supported losing teams had a 30% higher risk of heart attack or angina compared to those who were neutral.
Those who supported winning teams had a lower risk of heart attack or angina, but the difference was not statistically significant.
Why Losing Teams Raise the Risk of Infarction
The study investigators believe that losing teams raise the risk of infarction because fans experience a significant amount of stress when their team loses. This stress can cause a spike in blood pressure and an increase in cortisol levels.
Elevated blood pressure and cortisol levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Stress can also lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as binge-eating and excessive drinking. Fans of losing teams are more likely to indulge in these behaviors as a way to cope with the stress of their team’s poor performance.
Conclusion
The study’s findings are significant and highlight the importance of reducing stress in everyday life. While it may be difficult to stop supporting a losing team, fans can take steps to reduce their stress levels.
Exercise, meditation, and yoga are all effective ways to manage stress and reduce the risk of heart disease.
The study also highlights the importance of heart health screenings. Everyone should get regular heart health checkups to monitor their cardiovascular health and prevent heart disease.