Sex

The Health Benefits of Sex.

How often do you find yourself thinking that things that feel good can’t possible be good for you?  Odds are, the answer is “Too often!”

Fortunately, recent studies have found evidence that sex is one activity that doesn’t fit into that category.  Beyond simply making you feel good, the health benefits of sex include:

1. Lowered blood pressure and increased circulation.

2. Stress reduction.

3. A boost for the immune system: Higher levels of the antibody immunoglobulin A (also known as IgA), which protects against colds and infections, can result from having sex just once or twice a week.

4. A workout: It takes only 30 minutes of sex to burn 85 calories or more.  Burning 3500 calories leads to a pound of weight loss, so slip between the sheets more often, or for longer periods of time, to get the trim and sexy body you’ve always wanted.

5. Improved cardiovascular health: Sex, like any other cardio workout, enhances the health of your heart.  Sex can even decrease the likelihood that you will have a heart attack in later life!

6. Increased self-esteem: Sex has psychological benefits in addition to physical benefits.

7. Pain reduction: Stop using headaches as an excuse for not having sex…the release of oxytocin and endorphins that results from having sex can actually help relieve the pain!  It can be a great way to reduce the effects of PMS, too.

8. Reduced risk of prostate cancer in men.

9. Strengthened pelvic floor muscles in women: Not only does performing Kegels during sex increase pleasure, it strengthens the muscles, which minimizes the effects of incontinence as you age.

10. Lowered cholesterol.

11. Boosted testosterone and estrogen.

12. Improved intimacy: Sex, especially orgasm, releases oxytocin.  In addition to its other benefits, oxytocin, sometimes referred to as “the love hormone,” helps partners bond and promotes trust between them.

13. A better night’s sleep.

14. An increased life span: Scientists have discovered that having at least two orgasms a week can lead to a longer life.  The hormone DHEA (or Dehydroepiandrosterone), which is released during sexual excitement, has countless health benefits, including healthy skin and a stronger immune system.  It also promotes tissue repair and even acts as an antidepressant!

Convinced yet?  Try it out for yourself!  This is one exercise regime that won’t be difficult to stick to…