How does exercise help heal a 'broken heart'?

While previous medical studies confirmed the health benefits of an athletic body in general, new research has come to herald an amazing achievement for those with a 'broken heart'.

It was revealed in the first global clinical trial that exercising, such as swimming, cycling, and regular workouts over 12 weeks can significantly contribute to healing the hearts of patients suffering from broken heart syndrome, a condition associated with severe psychological or physical stress.

This important discovery was announced at the annual conference of the European Society of Cardiology in Madrid, the largest global event specialized in heart diseases.

Broken heart syndrome, or 'Takotsubo', is one of the main causes of sudden changes in the shape and weakness of the heart muscle, often developing after a person experiences severe emotional shocks, such as the loss of a loved one.

Although its symptoms are similar to those of a heart attack, the risk of death from it is greater in men.

The study, which is the first of its kind, showed that combining cognitive behavioral therapy with exercise programs can lead to a significant improvement in heart health.

According to Dr. David Gamble, a clinical lecturer in cardiology at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland, the results suggest that these treatments may provide long-term benefits, such as reducing symptoms and lowering the risk of death among those suffering from this serious heart condition.

So, it seems that exercise, considered one of the most important preventive treatments, may be the awaited solution for many people suffering from broken heart syndrome, in an unprecedented step towards treating this condition.