The Health Benefits of Sex
by: Susie Michelle Cortright
Quick quiz: Would you rather run 75
miles or have sex three times per week for a year? Research shows that
both activities burn the same number of calories. (7,500, to be exact.)
We often think that something that
feels good can’t possibly be good for us. Now it’s time to think
again.
Sex in a loving, intimate relationship
has numerous health benefits. In women, for example, the sexual act
triggers the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin promotes feelings of
affection and triggers that nurturing instinct. In men, sex encourages
the flow of testosterone, which strengthens bones and muscles and helps
transport DHEA, a hormone that may be important in the function of the
body’s immune system.
Paul Pearsall, Ph.D., author of
Superimmunity, also maintains that sex in a loving relationship helps
the immune system by increasing the flow of certain chemicals in the
body.
Hugh O’Neill, editor of Men’s
Health magazine, recently listed some health benefits of sex, as well.
Regular sex is regular exercise and has similar benefits, including
improved cholesterol levels and increased circulation. Men’s Health
also reported that men who have sex at least three times each week may
have a decreased risk of developing prostate problems.
Sex, like exercise, releases
endorphins. Endorphins contribute to the runner’s high and diminishes
pain levels.
An active sex life may help us live
longer, too. Dr. David Weeks, a clinical neuropsychologist at
Scotland’s Royal Edinburgh Hospital, conducted a study of 3,500 people
ranging in age from 18 to 102. Weeks concluded that sex actually slows
the aging process.
Sexual therapists remind us that
frequent sex is a form of exercise. And feeling secure in a relationship
leads to feeling happier, which could lead to greater health--and a
younger look.
In fact, these studies indicate that
intimacy plays a key role in the health benefits of sex. A promiscuous
sexual relationship may actually produce an opposite effect by
introducing a sense of anxiety and fear.
In spite of all these health benefits
and the sheer pleasure of the act, Americans may still need a boost. At
least one-third of American couples report "inhibited sexual
desire," according to The Masters and Johnson Institute.
Sex therapists say sex acts on the
principal of "use it or lose it." So, for your heart, mind,
and soul, the best advice may be to "Just do it!"
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About The Author
Susie Michelle Cortright is the
author of several books for women, including Rekindling Your
Romance After Kids, and founder of the award-winning Momscape.com,
a website designed to help busy women find balance. Visit http://www.momscape.com
today and get Susie's *free* courses-by-email "6 Days to Less
Stress" and "Rekindling Your Romance After Kids." |
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