A new study has revealed that watching horror movies can help burn calories. According to the study, horror movies can increase metabolism and heart rate leading to more calories burned.
The study claims that although the number of calories burnt depends on the films and the individual, but a 90-minute horror film can burn an average of 150 calories.
The study, funded by the movie rental company Lovefilm, included ten participants who watched ten different horror films while wearing equipment that measured their heart rate, oxygen intake, and carbon dioxide output.
Meanwhile, the study also ranked the top ten horror films in terms of calories burned. The Shining (184 calories), Jaws (161 calories), and The Exorcist (158 calories) were the top three films. These films featured frequent jump-scare moments that caused viewers’ heart rates and adrenaline levels to spike.
“It is this release of fast-acting adrenaline, produced during short bursts of intense stress (or in this case, brought on by fear), which is known to lower the appetite, increase the basal metabolic rate, and ultimately burn a higher level of calories,” Dr Richard Mackenzie, senior lecturer and specialist in cell metabolism and physiology at the University of Westminster said as quoted by several media outlets. The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the university.
These movies often included jump-scare moments, elevating viewers’ heart rates and adrenaline levels, the study found.
According to a report by Indiatimes, Dr. Mackenzie clarified that the rapid release of adrenaline due to short bursts of intense stress, such as fear induced by horror films, is known to suppress appetite, increase basal metabolic rate, and ultimately result in more calories burned.
However, it is important to highlight that regular exercise and a healthy diet are essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle.