Vitamin G





Why? Expressing anger may cause your heart rate to increase while also elevating the levels of stress hormones. That can all lead to your heart and brain not getting the blood and oxygen they need—which could possibly up the chances for a stroke or heart attack.

If you do have occasional outbursts, study author Dr. Elizabeth Mostofsky says not to worry too much: "Although the risk of experiencing an acute cardiovascular event with any single outburst of anger is relatively low, the risk can accumulate for people with frequent episodes of anger."

The upshot: Taking a deep breath (from your gut, not from your chest), visualizing an experience or image that relaxes you, repeating calming words, and slow stretches can all help you keep anger at bay. And—who knows?—maybe lower the risk of harming your cardiovascular system too.

How do you—ahem—keep calm and carry on?

Photos: Thinkstock

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