Oxytocin: the cuddle hormone
One of the most multi-functional hormones in the human body is oxytocin. Its release is triggered by feelings of love, which is why it is also sometimes called the “cuddle hormone” or “love drug.” Oxytocin attaches to various cells in our body, so it can have many different effects. In pregnant women, this hormone prepares the body for childbirth and mediates uterus contractions just before delivery. It also helps build emotional bonds between parents and children, as well as in romantic partnerships. In addition to that, oxytocin has the very healthy effect of reducing stress. This is very good for the heart, as it prevents the untimely wear of our blood vessels.
Endorphin: the painkiller
“Endorphin” is composed of the words endogenous (or “internal”) and morphine, making this hormone’s job in the body very clear. Endorphin is our body’s own extremely effective painkiller. By inhibiting the transmission of pain signals, it also helps us sleep better. Its release is triggered by life’s most enjoyable activities: laughing, eating something delicious, and, fortunately, sex. Endorphin may be one reason that so many of us—especially men—tend to fall happily asleep soon after the lovemaking is over.
Adrenaline: the stimulator
Adrenaline, though technically a stress hormone, can have a healthy effect on our body if released in moderation—as it is during intercourse. It activates the sympathetic nervous system and thereby dilates arteries, stimulates blood flow, and increases heart rate. Adrenaline charges you with energy. In some cases, it is so effective that it enables people to lift incredibly heavy items or run extremely long distances that no “normal” human being could handle under everyday circumstances. And a quite similar thing happens when we turn our thoughts to a crush. As our bronchial tubes extend, we start to breathe better. Meanwhile, our pupils widen and our vision improves. Our blood pressure and blood sugar levels increase, as does the flow of blood through the body (especially through the muscles). By providing energy to our body, adrenaline stimulates a full-body workout.
Finding the motivation to go to the gym can be difficult at the best of times. But luckily for us, a much more pleasurable path to wellness awaits in our bedrooms. From pain relief to stress reduction to improved sleep, the examples above are just a small selection of the many positive effects sex can have on the body. So what are you waiting for—go to bed already!
AUTHOR BIO
Johannes Hinrich von Borstel is a paramedic, cardiologist-in-training, and one of the best Science Slammers in Germany. He is the author Heart: The Inside Story of Our Body’s Most Heroic Organ, a lively and informative exploration of all aspects of the heart (released June 6, 2017 from Greystone Books).
