The Independent on Saturday

More sex means fewer heart problems for men

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MEN rarely require much encouragem­ent to indulge in a night of passion, but now they can argue it’s good for their health.

Scientists have revealed that enjoying regular sex could be the best remedy for avoiding killer heart disease – although somewhat unfairly, only for the male of the species.

Making love several times a week can slash levels of homocystei­ne – a chemical in the blood that can trigger cardiac problems, a study found.

But women do not get the same benefit because their sexual arousal is less dependent on a healthy blood flow, experts said.

Men who enjoy regular sex sessions often have better circulatio­n and healthier blood vessels, which helps prevent a build-up of homocystei­ne.

Doctors have long suspected that frequent sex can reduce the risk of heart attacks. A previous study found intercours­e twice a week halved a man’s chances of clogged arteries compared with those indulging less than once a month.

But until now there has been little scientific evidence to explain why a healthy sex life protects against illness. The latest findings, published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, are the first to reveal the link with reducing homocystei­ne levels.

The chemical is a vital building block of proteins and occurs naturally in the body. But excess levels, which can be caused by poor diet, are thought to damage blood vessels supplying the heart – raising the risk of a deadly clot forming.

Previous studies have linked high readings with a 66% increased chance of dying from heart disease, as well as higher risks of stroke, Alzheimer’s and cancer.

Researcher­s are now calling on doctors to advise male patients at risk of heart disease to have more sex.

Dr Mike Knapton of the British Heart Foundation said the study produced an “interestin­g result” but did not prove regular sex reduced homocystei­ne levels.

He added, “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.” – Daily Mail

 ??  ?? HEALTHY SEX LIFE: Men who enjoy regular sex sessions often have better circulatio­n and healthier blood vessels, which helps prevent a build-up of homocystei­ne.
HEALTHY SEX LIFE: Men who enjoy regular sex sessions often have better circulatio­n and healthier blood vessels, which helps prevent a build-up of homocystei­ne.

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