A healthy sex life: 10 reasons to make love

Evidence points to the many health benefits of an active sex life.

1. Exercise. "Sexual activity is a form of physical exercise". Making love three times a week burns around 7,500 calories in a year -- the equivalent of jogging 75 miles.


2. Heavy Breathing. A night of love can raise the amount of oxygen in cells, helping to keep organs and tissues functioning at their peak.


3. Strong Bones and Muscles. "Any kind of physical exercise is going to increase testosterone." Testosterone is believed to help keep men's bones and muscles strong.


4. Lowered Cholesterol. Making love regularly can lower levels of the body's total cholesterol slightly, while positively changing the ratio of good-to-bad cholesterol.


5. Pain Relief. Sex can lower levels of "arthritic pain, whiplash pain and headache pain" . Hormones that are released during sexual excitement and orgasm can elevate pain thresholds.


6. DHEA -- Without Supplements. DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), a popular supplemental hormone, is released naturally during lovemaking. "Just before orgasm and ejaculation," Crenshaw says, "DHEA spikes to levels three to five times higher than usual."


7. Prostate Protection. Researchers say prostate trouble may arise or be worsened by fluid buildup within the gland. Regular ejaculation will help wash out those fluids. Be cautious when suddenly changing frequency -- sudden changes may also trigger prostate problems.


8. Stress Relief. "Sex can be a very effective way of reducing stress levels".


9. Love Will Keep Us Together. Affectionate touch will increase levels of oxytocin -- the "bonding hormone." Oxytocin is a desire-enhancing chemical secreted by the pituitary. Regular oxytocin release may help encourage frequent lovemaking.


10. Hormones -- Naturally. "Regular lovemaking can increase a woman's estrogen level, protect her heart and keep her vaginal tissues more supple".