Watching horror films could burn off a chocolate bar

Watching horror movies could burn nearly 200 calories over a single film, according to new research.

The tension and rushes of adrenaline that come with scary movies have the potential to shift the equivalent of a chocolate bar, or the same amount generated from a half-hour walk.

[Related story: Prequel planned for The Shining]

Topping the chart of the most calorie-defying films is Stanley Kubrick's benchmark 1980 shocker 'The Shining', which shifts on average 184 calories.

It's closely followed by Spielberg's 'Jaws' at number two with 161 calories and 'The Exorcist' at number three with 158 calories.

The research was conducted by the University of Westminster, after measuring the energy expenditure of 10 people watching various scary films using factors such as oxygen intake, heart rate and carbon dioxide output.

“Each of the ten films tested set pulses racing, sparking an increase in the heart rate of the case studies,” said Dr Richard Mackenzie, a senior lecturer and specialist in cell metabolism.

“As the pulse quickens and blood pumps around the body faster, the body experiences a surge in adrenaline.

“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.”

The research was commissioned by film rental company Lovefilm.

Here is the top 10 in full:

1. The Shining - 184 calories
2. Jaws - 161 calories
3. The Exorcist - 158 calories
4. Alien - 152 calories
5. Saw - 133 calories
6. A Nightmare on Elm Street - 118 calories
7. Paranormal Activity - 111 calories
8. The Blair Witch Project - 105 calories
9. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre - 107 calories
10. [Rec] - 101 calories