6 Amazing Health Benefits of Sex
By Carissa Wright, GalTime.com
As humans, we are one of the few species that engages in intercourse for pleasure rather than simply for reproduction purposes (besides dolphins, which is kinda creepy). While it may seem overindulgent, it turns out that engaging in sexual activity is oh so good for your health!
That's right, there are actually health benefits associated with sex. This was a mystery that we just had to uncover, so we spoke with Dr. Carole Liberman.
Sex = Exercise
Intercourse burns a good amount of calories. It's a lot more fun than jogging on a treadmill or lifting weights. One half hour of sexual intercourse burns approximately 100 to 200 calories.
Sex Keeps You Looking Younger!
Dr. David Weeks (Royal Edinburgh Hospital) studied 3,500 people to determine what factors help defy aging. He found that couples in committed relationships with an active sex life appear younger.
It's Good for Your Heart! Studies show sex can help lower your blood pressure. It may even lower heart attack risk in men who have sex twice a week. Overall stress reduction is part of the reason sex does the heart good.
Related: 3 Biggest Mistakes Women Make in Bed
Sex Boosts Immunity
Research indicates that having sex once or twice a week boosts the immune system, with increased levels of immunoglobulin A. This helps ward off colds, flu and many other illnesses.
It Can Cure the Common Headache... Kind of!
Sex boosts the body's level of "the love hormone" oxytocin. "This creates a feeling of intimacy & bonding," says Dr. Carole, "and it also increases endorphins that, in turn, decrease pain.
Sex Gets the Blood Pumping
Sex can increase blood flow which sends those little oxygen molecules all over your body. "This makes your skin, scalp, clitoris, and other important parts very happy," says Dr. Carole.
Sex Helps You Sleep Better
That oxytocin is a multi-tasker! Not only does it increase endorphins and decrease pain, but it can also help put you to sleep. "Sex, and feeling loved, decreases stress, which makes worries disappear and allows you to fall into a deep sleep."
Most Popular on GalTime.com:
