Crying has always been associated with strong emotions and is often seen as a sign of weakness. However, crying is more than just an emotional response – it may actually have health benefits. One intriguing question that has been circulating is: “Does crying burn calories?”
In this article, we will separate fact from fiction and explore the truth behind this question to better understand its impact on our health. So, let’s dive in and find out if shedding tears can also help shed some pounds.
Read on!
The Science Behind Crying and Calorie Expenditure
To understand if crying burns calories, we need to first look at what happens in our body when we cry. When we are upset or emotional, our sympathetic nervous system is activated, causing an increase in heart rate and breathing. This leads to a faster metabolism, which means the body needs more energy (calories) to function.
Additionally, crying also releases hormones and toxins from our body, which can further increase calorie expenditure. So, in simple terms, crying is a physiological response that requires energy and therefore may result in burning some calories. However, the question remains – how many calories are actually burned while crying?
The Truth Behind Crying and Weight Loss
When it comes to weight loss, the number of calories burned is a crucial factor. This leads us to question if crying can actually help with weight loss in any significant way. The answer is not as straightforward as we may think.
A person burns about 1.3 calories per minute while crying, which amounts to only 78 calories per hour. This calorie expenditure during crying may seem like a significant number, but it is not enough to make any noticeable difference in weight loss. In fact, 78 calories can easily be burned through a short walk or light exercise.
The Emotional and Mental Impact of Crying
While the physical benefits of crying may not be significant in terms of weight loss, there are still emotional and mental impacts to consider. Crying can be a cathartic release of emotions, helping us process and cope with difficult situations. This can have a positive impact on our mental well-being and reduce stress levels, which in turn may have indirect effects on weight loss.
Staying motivated during a weight loss plateau or coping with emotional eating can be challenging, and crying may offer temporary relief from these struggles. However, it is essential to find healthy coping mechanisms rather than relying on crying as a way to burn calories.
Moreover, crying also releases oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone,” which promotes feelings of trust, empathy, and bonding. This can strengthen relationships and improve overall emotional health, which is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The Verdict: Does Crying Burn Calories?
So, does crying burn calories? Crying may burn some calories due to the physiological response it triggers in our body. However, this calorie expenditure is not significant enough to contribute to weight loss.
Instead, the emotional and mental benefits of crying are more valuable in maintaining overall health. So, don’t be afraid to shed a tear or two when needed – it’s not just a sign of weakness but also a natural and healthy way to cope with emotions. Stay healthy!
