Can Sex Slow Down The Aging Process?

Okay, so it has been proven that age doesn't diminish one's sex drive. Hence all the Hugh Hefner alikes and equivalent female comparisons of today's society who seem to be enjoying healthy sexual appetites as they mature.

We often think that something that feels good can’t possibly be good for us. Now it’s time to think again.

Does sex keep us young and help fight the effects of aging? It may be somewhat arguable by the minority but, for all those of us who are, have or plan to enjoy a healthy sex life you will be pleased to know that the answer is a compelling yes!

Here are some of the reasons why sex slows down the aging process:

 #1: Keeps Us Fit - would you rather run 75 miles or have sex 3 times per week for a year? Research shows that both activities burn approximately the same number of calories. (7,500 to be exact). So keep that heart rate up! Hugh O’Neill, editor of Men’s Health magazine, recently listed some health benefits of sex. Including improved cholesterol levels and increased circulation. Men’s Health also reported that men who have sex at least 3 times a week may have a decreased risk of developing prostate problems.

#2: Makes Us Feel Good - so what I here you say? Well behind those good feelings are endorphins – the hormone in charge of eliciting elevated spirits and positive perceptions of our environment. Researchers say that such inspiration comes from the activity of certain brain centers which change the hormonal status of the body. Good quality sex produces a spiritually elevating effect on the chemical levels and also reduces stress. People who have intercourse have better responses to stressful situations than those who abstain from sex.

#3: Boosts Our Immune System - Having sex even 1 to 2 times a week has been linked to increased levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin, which can protect us from colds and other infections. Paul Pearsall, Ph.D., author of Superimmunity: Master Your Emotions and Improve Your Personal Health, also maintains that sex in a loving relationship helps the immune system by increasing the flow of certain chemicals in the body. So if our bodies aren't undergoing the toll of fighting off infections, over a lifetime, that could mean a healthier body and a younger one too.

#4: Better Sleep - Cure for insomnia anyone? Even after it's over it keeps on giving. According to research the oxytocin hormone released during sex also promotes sleep. And getting enough sleep has been linked with a host of other good things, such as maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure. Not to mention that sleep is vital to ensure the person staring back in the mirror the next morning is looking their best, hence the term beauty sleep.

So in summary a healthy and active sex life can help us live longer and age better. So as we well and truly say goodbye to an era where sex was tabooed, we welcome the succession of a healthier one where we can embrace sex and stay feeling younger and living longer**!

SCEPTIC? If you don't believe me, after all who am I to be preaching on such matters, then you may want to read Secrets of the Superyoung by renowned Dr. David Weeks, a clinical neuropsychologist at Scotland’s Royal Edinburgh Hospital. Dr Weeks conducted a study of 3,500 people ranging in age from 18 to 102. At the end of his study Weeks concluded that sex actually slows the aging process.

**Disclaimer: Results may vary depending on individual lifestyle and environmental factors aside from just sex. So if you generally eat and drink in excess and have a lifestyle that is not congruent to maintaining your health, then please don't think that sex alone will keep you feeling and looking young - this is just delusional ;)