Top-Ranked Home Stress Reliever Identified by Researchers
In a groundbreaking study, scientists from the Human-Animal Bond Institute at the University of Denver have delved into the influence of dogs on human physiology, particularly in response to stress. The research, which focuses on both cortisol levels and the alpha-amylase enzyme in the blood, offers promising new perspectives on the role of dogs in managing stress-related conditions.
Previously, most similar studies have focused solely on cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. However, this new research expands the scope, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the body's response to stress in the presence of dogs.
The findings suggest that dogs help people feel calmer and tune their body towards a healthy response to stress. The emotional bond formed between humans and their dogs plays a critical role in lowering stress during high-pressure situations by modulating physiological stress markers.
The study involved 40 participants who underwent a standard stress test. Half of the participants brought their dogs, while the other half did not. The results showed that people with dogs had lower cortisol levels, indicating less anxiety, and a healthy peak in alpha-amylase, which signifies a quick but controlled reaction. On the other hand, people without dogs had minimal alpha-amylase enzyme reaction.
Related research supports the role of dogs in reducing physiological stress. For instance, affiliative behavior with dogs decreases cortisol in both dogs and humans, unlike interactions associated with control or discipline which may increase stress hormone levels.
The study provides new prospects for understanding the role of dogs in human physiology beyond stress reduction. The findings suggest that dogs may help in treating PTSD and other conditions related to stress system dysfunction. Moreover, the results may contribute to the increasing popularity of dogs as emotional support animals.
The Human-Animal Bond Institute at the University of Denver continues to investigate the impact of animals on human physiology beyond cortisol levels. The sympathetic-adrenal system, which provides a quick response - "fight or flight", is being tracked by the level of alpha-amylase enzyme in the blood. The institute's ongoing research could potentially lead to new methods for treating conditions related to stress system dysfunction.
Over a third of Americans admit to feeling completely overwhelmed almost every day. In such times, the calming effect of dogs could prove invaluable in maintaining an "optimal zone" of alertness without overwhelming the body. As the research progresses, the benefits of the human-dog bond in managing stress could become an essential part of stress management strategies.
Science and health-and-wellness are intertwined in the research exploring the influence of dogs on human physiology, specifically relating to stress. Mental-health is highlighted as a significant focal point, given the potential role of dogs in managing stress-related conditions, such as PTSD, due to their ability to modulate physiological stress markers.
