Watching World Cup soccer on telly can help shed the pounds

London, June 18 (ANI): A study has shown that watching a World Cup match on telly can actually help one burn up to 740 calories.

The study by LiveIt Health found that watching England's footie exploits, plus the pre- and post-match analysis, could even make one lose more calories than having a gentle kickabout by oneself.

But any beneficial health effects of World Cup viewing will be knocked out if one binges on pizzas, pies and booze.

A study last week revealed fans could pile on a whopping 10lb each during the tournament, taking on up to 5,000 calories per match.

"The World Cup offers a great opportunity to lift our national self-esteem and just at the right time with the recession," the Sun quoted NHS psychologist Dr Roger Kingerlee as saying.

"But there are risks. For example, we can become angrier at work and our frustration can spill into other aspects of our lives. Plus there is real potential for post-World Cup blues if we're knocked out early," he added.

According to tests carried out on two subjects, who were asked to wear calorie monitors during England's game against USA, excitement played a vital role in the changing of blood pressure.

It was found that the tension and excitement during the match burnt more calories, and sent the blood pressure soaring, as compared to having a relaxing kickabout with mates. (ANI)