by Paula Owens

 

Dr. Irwin Goldstein, the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Sexual Medicine, recently told CNN.com that when you read about the physical benefits of sex, "you can't help but say: Holy God! Sexual activity is a very important thing to do. Human beings were really meant to do this." Just what types of benefits is he referring to? Here's a summary of the recent research:

v Lower risk of heart disease: A new study in the American Journal of Cardiology found having sex twice a week may lower men's risk of heart attack by up to 45 percent.

v Strengthened immune system: Those who have sex once or twice a week may have higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A, which may lower your incidence of colds and infections.

v Live longer: Studies have shown that men who had sex at least twice a week lived longer than those who did so less than once a month.

v Lower cancer risk: Women can lower their risk of breast cancer, and men their risk of prostate cancer, by having sex often.

v Pain relief: Sexual activity and orgasm increase levels of the hormone oxytocin, which increases endorphins that lower your pain levels. Studies have shown that sexual activity can relieve back pain, migraines, arthritis pain and PMS symptoms.

v Lose weight: Sex burns calories, on average 50-60 per session, which can add up to an effective form of exercise and weight loss over time.

v Boost self-esteem and bonding: Sex not only raises your levels of self-esteem, but the hormone, oxytocin. helps to increase your bonding and connection as a couple.

v Reduced menopause symptoms: Frequent sex regulates hormones and women experience fewer hot flashes.

v Better testosterone levels: Men who had sex at least eight times per month had greater testosterone increases than those who had sex less than eight times per month.

Copyright 2009 Paula Owens www.PaulaOwens.com

Paula is a holistic nutritionist, fitness and weight loss expert with over 20 years of experience. She is the author of THE POWER OF 4 - Your Ultimate Guide Guaranteed to Change Your Body and Transform Your Life. She holds a Masters degree in Holistic Nutrition, a Bachelors degree in Kinesiology and numerous professional health and fitness certifications. Paula works with clients throughout the U.S. helping those with hormone imbalances, weight loss, physique transformation, adrenal fatigue, digestive disorders, obesity, diabetes, cancer and many other health complaints.