Why Being Kind to Others is Good for Your Health

We've often said the easiest way to find happiness is to help others. Now we see evidence that helping others may extend your happy life as well!

Studies show, for instance, that volunteering correlates with a 24% lower risk of early death – about the same as eating six or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day, according to some studies. What’s more, volunteers have a lower risk of high blood glucose, and a lower risk of the inflammation levels connected to heart disease. They also spend 38% fewer nights in hospitals than people who shy from involvement in charities.

And these health-boosting impacts of volunteering appear to be found in all corners of the world, from Spain and Egypt to Uganda and Jamaica, according to one study based on the data from the Gallup World Poll.

But it's not just volunteering for charitable work that has health benefits. The same benefits can come from donating money to good causes, performing random acts of kindness, and even taking care of children. Read about the research into doing good for others at BBC Future. -via Damn Interesting