It is no surprise that sex can boost general self-esteem levels and improve intimacy within a relationship. What may be surprising, however, are the far-reaching health benefits of sex. More studies are now illustrating the importance of a healthy sex life to overall health. These health benefits of sex are among the most promising.
Stress Relief
Stress can contribute greatly to poor health. Chronic headaches, depression, weight gain, high blood pressure and heart disease have all been associated with high levels of stress. However, a study published in the medical journal “Biological Psychology” illustrates that regular sexual intercourse diminishes the effects of stress.
Boosts Immunity
A study performed by Wilkes University Department of Psychology professor Dr. Carl Charnetski reports that couples who have sex an average of once or twice a week have heightened levels of immunoglobulin A. This immunoglobulin plays a large role in fighting off bacterial and viral infections.
Heart Health
The heart is a muscle. That muscle needs the occasional workout to remain healthy and viable. Since sex makes the heart race, it acts as the perfect exercise for this particular muscle. In fact, men who have sex twice a week or more are half as likely to have a heart attack as those men who have sex only once a month. Sex can also reduce the risk of developing heart disease, the No. 1 killer of women in the United States.
Reduces Pain
During sex, oxytocin, endorphins and dopamine are all released. These chemical substances act to reduce pain and raise pleasure. If you have a headache, struggle with joint pain, menstrual cramps or any other aches and pains, sex may be just what the doctor ordered.
Sleep Better
Researchers at the University of California in San Diego discovered that a brain can’t function properly without adequate amounts of sleep. Other studies illustrate that poor sleep can contribute to obesity, strokes and high blood pressure. However, the oxytocin released during intercourse helps to regulate sleeping cycles. This leaves both partners sleeping more comfortably and heavily.
Increased Flexibility
Flexibility can be greatly increased as the result of frequent sex. This occurs as pain sensations diminish and the positions grow more interesting. Aside from spicing up the bedroom, the increased flexibility can ultimately help you in your old age. Flexible joints are joints that are less likely to break due to a slip and fall. This will leave you mobile for years, which boosts overall health into old age.
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