'Sexercise' will keep you healthy and young

Feb 12 2006

According to British health experts if you want to get fit forget the gym, jogging round the park and doing sit ups, a workout between the sheets is a more effective and enjoyable way of keeping healthy.

The British National Health Service is recommending that for those too busy to fit regular exercise into their schedule, sex will not only lower the risk of heart attacks but will help people live longer.

According to the NHS during "sexercise" endorphins released at orgasm stimulate immune system cells, which also helps target illnesses like cancer, as well as wrinkles.

While sexual health experts agree there is evidence that sex has benefits for mental wellbeing, they say claims of a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer could not be scientifically proven.

The NHS however claims the theory is backed by science and clinical evidence.

The advice, entitled "Get more than zeds in bed", is one of several sexual health-related articles to be found on the NHS Direct website and claims sex with a little energy and imagination provides a workout worthy of an athlete.

The article also says orgasms even prevent wrinkles and frown lines from deepening.

The NHS says that sex uses every muscle group, gets the heart and lungs working hard, and burns about 300 calories an hour.

The advice suggests "regular romps this winter" could lead to a better body and a younger look, make hair shine and skin smooth.

The article also claims goes that orgasms release "painkillers" into the bloodstream, which help keep mild illnesses such as colds and aches and pains away.

Healthy bones and muscles, and a feeling of wellbeing are they say a guaranteed result of the production of extra oestrogen and testosterone hormones which sex engenders.