The health benefits of being in love

nbc file elderly couple walking holding hands

File photo
Photographer: KSHB
Copyright: NBC News

nbc file in love couple relationship vacation

File photo
Copyright: NBC

advertisement

Posted: 02/14/2012

If the cutesy swooning and doe-eyed drooling of Valentine's Day is too much for you, keep this in mind: being in a loving relationship can have massive health benefits.

Researchers say giving your heart to another person may be the most heart-healthy thing you do.

"When somebody is inspiring us, we may be much more likely to go exercise with them, eat in a healthy fashion..." explains Cleveland Clinic psychologist Dr. Scott Bea.

Study after study has associated health benefits with being with a special someone:

- Research from the University of Iowa found ovarian cancer patients had greater immune system-boosting white blood cell activity around their tumors when they had strong personal relationships.

- A study from the United Kingdom found men who have sex at least twice a week cut their risk of dying from a heart attack in half.

- University of North Carolina doctors found women's blood pressure lowered after spending quality, romantic time with a partner and hugging for at least 20 seconds.

- Married people, especially men, tend to outlive their single counterparts.
 

Copyright NBC News

  • Comments
  • Marketplace
advertisement
 
  • Stay Connected

Send us a News Tip.

Send us a News Tip.

Send us a News Tip.
Twitter

Send us a News Tip.
Facebook - 41 Action News

Send us a News Tip.
Facebook - 38 the Spot!

Send us a News Tip.
Community Calendar