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We all know that sex is toe-curlingly, sheet-bitingly, and swooningly fantastic, but did you know that the benefits of sex go beyond simply feeling good?
Whether alone with a trusty vibrator or with your 'for now' or forever partner, the benefits of regular sex are emotional, physical and chemical.
Read on to understand why 'use it or lose it' is the maxim we should all go by.
Endorphines - natural pain-killers released during sex
The blissed-out feeling you get after a great sex session is down to the endorphins released – a surge of up to 200% from the first kiss to the last caress!
Endorphins are natural painkillers. If you’ve got a bad back or killer cramps, it is best to retire to bed, not with a damp flannel, but with your lover or favourite sex toy (or both!), as pain can feel as much as 70% reduced after getting your rocks off.
Endorphins are also natural stress-busters. If things are getting on top of you, let an orgasm work its magic, and you’ll feel instantly soothed in more ways than one...
Benefits of DHEA
Orgasm triggers the release of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). DHEA is a natural steroid hormone with fantastic properties. This hormone improves brain & cardiovascular function, helps balance & boosts the immune system, and helps bone growth and tissue repair.
DHEA keeps your skin healthy and supple and is even said to process the fountain of youth. One study showed that women who have sex 4-5 times a week look up to 10 years younger. (Pass that lube, babes!)
Benefits of oestrogen - released during orgasm
Research suggests that women who orgasm regularly (at least weekly) have higher levels of oestrogen in their blood. This leads to a healthier cardiovascular system, lower bad cholesterol, higher good cholesterol, better bone density, suppler skin and a harmonious menstrual cycle.
The calorie-burning benefits of sex
Regular orgasms can help keep you slim as well as beautiful.
How many calories you burn off depends on the kind of sex you are having. An energetic sex session 3 times a week can burn off 7,500 calories, or 1kg of body fat loss per year.
But what if you’re not physically able to have chandelier-swinging sex? Or prefer more leisurely lovemaking?
Getting turned on will also help keep the pounds off as arousal triggers the body’s production of phenethylamine, a natural amphetamine that controls appetite.
Benefits of serotonin - the natural feel-good molecule
Serotonin levels in the brain increase during sex.
Dubbed 'the feel-good neurotransmitter' or 'happy molecule,' serotonin promotes well-being by balancing moods, aiding sleep and calming anxiety.
Serotonin is believed to help calm the cravings of addicts trying to kick a drug, drink or nicotine addiction.
Benefits of oxytocin - the bonding hormone
Sex keeps us feeling connected with the help of oxytocin, aka the bonding hormone. Released at the point of orgasm, oxytocin is believed to help strengthen feelings of intimacy and trust.
Oxytocin is a great reason to have sex, even if you’re not in the mood. Regularly releasing this desire-enhancing chemical will help you get your mojo back.
So, there you have it. Sex and orgasm don't just feel good, but also do you good. Sex rewards you with physical, emotional and chemical benefits, so what are you waiting for? Go forth and help yourself to some natural highs of a quickie or leisurely sex session... *wink*
