Researchers at the National Defence Medical Centre in Taiwan have concluded that frequent sex, for men, in particular, is good for heart health, the Telegraph reports.
According to the study, regular sex reduces the levels of homocysteine, a harmful chemical in the blood that affects the heart. Engaging in sexual intercourse frequently each week increases blood circulation and makes for healthier blood vessels which are imperative to promoting heart health and averting the expansion of homocysteine.
Researchers have, however, highlighted that the same isn’t true for females. This is because women’s sexual arousal isn’t as dependent on a healthy blood flow as it is for men.
“A good-quality sex life, frequent sex, and libido are all related to health in the middle-aged and elderly. Increased sexual frequency could have a protective effect on general health and quality of life, especially in men, so doctors should support patients’ sexual activity,” the study said.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, focused on more than 2 000 men and women between the ages of 20 and 59. Blood samples were taken to measure each participant’s level of homocysteine. Researchers then compared these results with the individuals’ frequency of sexual activity.
“This is the first study of its kind to evaluate the correlation between sexual frequency and homocysteine levels,” the study said.
The results showed that there was less of the chemical in men who had sex at least twice a week, while higher traces were found in men who had sex less than once a month.
There was no correlation found for study’s female participants.
Speaking to the Telegraph, Dr. Mike Knaption of the British Heart Foundation said that while he understands the point being made in the study, he argued that it did not necessarily conclusively prove that regular sex brought down levels of homocysteine.
“A relationship does exist between sex and heart disease risk. Checking your blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as keeping active and not smoking remain the best ways to ensure a healthy future,” he said.
Extra source: Telegraph
