A new study from researchers in China has revealed that men who enjoy more frequent sex have a lower risk of developing heart disease.
So, if you’ve been looking for a science-backed excuse to roll around more in the sheets, consider this your green light.
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The team from Qingdao University conducted an extensive study over nearly nine years, analyzing data from 17,243 adults in the U.S.
Their research and results were published in the Journal of Scientific Reports back in December.
What is Heart Disease?
Heart disease, or cardiovascular disease, encompasses a variety of conditions that impact the heart’s function and health.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of heart disease vary depending on the specific type and its severity. In some cases, it can lead to serious complications like heart attacks or strokes.
Certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, being overweight, and a lack of physical activity, can significantly increase the risk of developing heart disease. “Many forms of heart disease can be prevented or treated with healthy lifestyle choices,” the Mayo Clinic writes.
Surprising Results
So, what were the results of the study? Well, researchers found that men who had sex fewer than 12 times a year were at a higher risk of heart disease and early death. Meanwhile, those who got lucky about 103 times annually — roughly twice a week — significantly reduced their chances of cardiovascular trouble.
Even better news: you don’t have to hit those twice-weekly numbers to see benefits.
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Experts noted that having sex just once a week (52 times a year) is still good for your heart. But before you go overboard, remember moderation is key. Researchers found that having sex more than once a day might actually have a negative impact on your heart health.
Why Does Sex Help Your Heart?
The link between sex and your heart isn’t just about love and intimacy — it’s physical, too. “Never mind the ways in which sex may be good for your heart in terms of love, intimacy and emotions; sex is quite literally good for your heart,” explained Dr. Alexis Missick of UK Meds, per The Sun.
Sex gets your heart pumping, boosts circulation, and reduces stress — all crucial for cardiovascular health. Plus, it burns about five calories a minute, making it a pretty enjoyable workout that strengthens muscles throughout your body.
“It’s often overlooked that sexual activity itself constitutes a form of physical activity and aerobic exercise,” the authors wrote. “Despite the well-established benefits of moderate physical activity, evidence suggests there may be a point of diminishing returns.
“In fact, high levels of aerobic exercise may detract from the significant health benefits observed with moderate levels.”
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, but regular romps in the bedroom could help. “Keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level is not only important but could be made a lot easier thanks to having sex,” said Dr. Missick.
A Warning for Dry Spells
If your bedroom activity has hit a dry spell, it could be more than a relationship hiccup — it might be a warning sign.
Erectile dysfunction, for example, can indicate underlying heart disease. As the British Heart Foundation (BHF) explains, erections depend on proper blood flow. Blocked arteries, a buildup of cholesterol, or other heart issues can disrupt this, leading to problems in the bedroom.
The researchers behind the study urge men to consider their sexual activity as a gauge of their overall health. “Those with either excessively high or low [sexual] frequencies should pay attention to the situation and seek medical attention if necessary,” the authors wrote.
So, whether it’s for love, fitness, or just good old fun, science has spoken — getting busy could help keep your ticker in top shape.
