Sex is fun and feels incredible — that alone is
plenty reason to have more of it. But if you need additional incentive,
it has an incredible array of benefits to our health and well-being.
Aside from giving you a youthful glow, sex is also a great way to stay flexible and burn calories.
It
can also help you sleep better at night and wake up healthier in the
morning. Studies also show that those who have an active sex live longer
and may even have more successful careers.
According to the National Opinion Research Center, the average American
couple reports having sex 66 times a year. Married adults under age 30
say they have sex an average of 109 times a year. The average number
drops to 70 times per year for 40-somethings and 52 times a year for
people in their 50s.
Below are 11 additional health benefits of regular sex:
- It boosts immunity: "Research suggests that those who have had sex recently have higher levels of immunoglobulin A, an antibody that can help ward off common cold and flu symptoms," says Astroglide's Resident Sexologist, Dr. Jess.
- You'll live longer: Improved longevity, balanced hormones and lower stress levels. "These benefits are associated with the good night's sleep that often follows a romp in the hay owing to the increase in oxytocin levels!" says Dr. Jess.
- Healthier heart: Couples who are in a happy relationship have a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, higher survival rates after serious surgeries and greater longevity owing to healthier eating habits, stronger social networks and an increased likelihood of seeking medical care, says Dr. Jess.
- Pain relief: Sex can be used as a pain reliever especially during orgasm when levels of oxytocin get exponentially elevated, says John W. Beiter, Ph.D., CST, Licensed Psychologist and AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. So, stop using those headaches as an excuse not to play!
- Anti-aging: "Studies have shown that couples having more sex can look seven years younger!" says love and sex coach Kim Anami.
- Exercise: According to psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Estella Sneider, by having sex at least three times per week it helps burn calories and we get the benefit of using more than 500 muscles!
- It's great for your career: "Dr. Helen Fisher, an anthropologist and biologist, states that people who have sex regularly are more successful at work," says Sneider. According to her, sex helps trusting oneself and increases self–esteem.
- Beauty treatment: Regular sex increases estrogen production, which makes your hair shiny and your skin smooth. "The pheromones you release act as a natural perfume, so more people are attracted to you!" adds Anami.
- Stress relief: The oxytocin released at orgasm wipes out cortisol, which is the major stress hormone, says Anami.10. Lowers Your Blood Pressure:Research suggests a link between sex and lower blood pressure, says Joseph J. Pinzone, MD. He is CEO and medical director of Amai Wellness.
“There
have been many studies,” he says. “One landmark study found that sexual
intercourse specifically (not masturbation) lowered systolic blood
pressure.” That's the first number on your blood pressure test.
11. Lowers Heart Attack Risk: A good sex life is good for your heart. Besides being a great way to raise your heart rate, sex helps keep your estrogen and testosterone levels in balance.
“When either one of those is low you begin to get lots of problems, like osteoporosis and even heart disease,” Pinzone says.
Having sex more often may help. During one study, men who had sex at least twice a week were half as likely to die of heart disease as men who had sex rarely.
“When either one of those is low you begin to get lots of problems, like osteoporosis and even heart disease,” Pinzone says.
Having sex more often may help. During one study, men who had sex at least twice a week were half as likely to die of heart disease as men who had sex rarely.
