Going to your local pub for a pint makes you HEALTHIER, experts say
POPPING down to your local boozer for a pint with friends is good for your health, a new study has found.
Oxford University psychologists concluded people who drink regularly at their local pub are happier, more engaged and have more friends.
While most studies warn of the health risks of alcohol consumption, these scientists believe drinking in “moderation” is crucial for social bonding.
Professor Robin Dunbar from the psychology department, said: "Frequenting a local pub can directly affect peoples’ social network size.
“It affects how engaged they are with their local community, which in turn can affect how satisfied they feel in life.”
He said visiting the pub can act as a “buffer” for mental and physical illness.
“While pubs traditionally have a role as a place for community socialising, alcohol’s role appears to be in triggering the endorphin system, which promotes social bonding," Professor Dunbar said.
“Like other complex bonding systems such as dancing, singing and storytelling, it has often been adopted by large social communities as a ritual associated with bonding.”
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The study used data from a questionnaire for pub-goers, a Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) survey as well as observation in pubs.
It found those who have a ‘local’ they visit regularly tend to feel more socially engaged and happy.
They are also more likely to trust other members of their community.
The researchers found those who do not visit their local pub have significantly smaller social networks.
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