Not only can sex be fun, but it can actually be good for you in some unexpected ways. Family physician Dr. Lisa Del Giudice dishes on the benefits, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Stay fit. Sex gets your body moving, so you can definitely count it as a milder form of exercise. While the intensity and duration will vary the calories you burn, every little bit helps. On average, kissing will burn 68 calories per hour, massaging 80 calories per hour and intercourse about 144 calories per half hour.
Minimize pain. Studies have found that hormones released following an orgasm are similar to morphine, and can help with headaches, back pain and other types of body aches.
Snooze better. A sleep-boosting hormone called prolactin is released in the body after an orgasm, so good sex can help you feel more relaxed and rested when the fun is done.
Lower cancer risk. One study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that men who ejaculated at least 21 times per month were less likely to develop prostate cancer.
Sneeze less. There is some evidence that people who have regular sex are less likely to get sick. That’s because sex helps the body produce an antibody called immunoglobulin A, which can help strengthen the immune system.
Be happier. Physical touch and arousal help your body produce feel good hormones. So those amazing feelings you enjoy during sex will have lasting benefits long after the bed is made.
