There is nothing like a good laugh, is there? It not only feels great to laugh, it can feel great to hearother people laugh. Beyond brightening the mood, can laughter provide tangible health benefits?Lee Berk of Loma Linda University in California has done a series of studies on laughter and its possible physiological effects. We will talk to him about his latest study, done over the course of a year with diabetic patients. (Begins at 3:50)In this month’s Buzz in Physiology (begins at 0:51), we look at studies that provide possible explanations for:Why pregnant Andean give birth to larger babies at high altitude, compared to European womenHow certain side effects in some medical procedures may trace back to a solvent found in plastic tubingTotal Time: 9:47
Life Lines is a general interest science podcast of The American Physiological Society dedicated to conveying the "phizz" in physiology. Physiology is the study of how the body works, from all the body's major systems and functions to the molecules and cells that work in such remarkable ways to keep us healthy. Each episode includes three segments: - An interview with the author of a recent physiological study - An answer to a question about how the body works - A feature interview with a physiologist about his or her work If you would like a summary of the recent physiological studies featured on the program, please visit www.lifelines.tv. To ask Life Lines a question about physiology please skype "Physcast" or call 301-637-5634.