Forget the sneaky after work drinks, late night Netflix binges, or lengthy dinner dates. When it comes down to keeping your heart healthy, it all boils down to lip service.
A new study published in the journal Psychological Science found that people who feel less supported by their spouse had higher levels of hardened arteries.
Examining the hearts and relationship satisfaction of 136 married couples, each person was asked to fill out a survey ranking their partner’s support and care in times of need and upset.
When the researchers looked back over the survey, and examined the heart health of respondents, there was a clear link between those who felt less supported and higher levels of hardened arteries.
The most at risk group were those who classed their other half as ‘ambivalent’ – saying that although they were supportive sometimes, there were other times where they felt like they had been let down.
So how is being less supportive affecting your heart health?
The researchers have attributed a lack of support as putting increased pressure or stress on someone, which can influence your risk of cardiovascular disease.
So whether it’s popping on the kettle for a quick chat, or checking in after a busy day of work, you could be benefiting your relationship in more ways than one.
