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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. (For more information, see
Secrets of the Superyoung, by Dr. David Weeks)
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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