A bumper sticker from the hippy era in the Sixties read: “Candy is dandy, but sex don’t rot your teeth!”
Apart from the “feel good” emotional benefits, are there are any other physiological benefits for your body?
Hugging:
Hugging increases levels of oxytocin, the so called “love hormone”, which may benefit your heart health. Regularly hugging a loved one can result in lower blood pressure and a healthier heart rate. It also helps to reduce levels of cortisol, the chronic stress hormone, in the body
Kissing:
Kissing prompts your brain to release feel-good chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin. Regular kissing with your partner can significantly reduce stress levels.
Sex:
A healthy sex life has many beneficial effects on the body, such as:
- Higher levels of immunoglobulin A, which boosts the immune system.
- Less likely to develop heart disease.
- Intercourse has been linked to lower blood pressure and improved stress response.
- It is excellent exercise that burns 3 – 4 calories per minute.
- Sexual activity releases pain-reducing hormones.
- There are indications that men who ejaculate regularly may have a lower risk of prostate cancer.
- The hormones prolactin and oxytocin that are released during and after sex helps to improve sleep.
- Regular sex improves the libido.
- Increased levels of the “love hormone” oxytocin increases feelings of intimacy and bonding to your partner.
Source:
Www.Mercola.com – “Study: How often do happy people have sex?” Article by Dr. Mercola. Published online 28 April 2016.
HEALTH INSIGHT
MARCH 2017
