Science Says That Sex Makes You Smarter (And Kids Ruin Your Life)
Studies reveal the pros and potential cons of getting down.
Let’s start with the good: New research has found that having sex can improve mental performance and increase the production of new neurons in the hippocampus, where long-term memories are formed. Yes, you actually grow new brain cells through sex.
A team from the University of Maryland reports that middle-aged rats showed signs of improved cognitive and hippocampal function after sex. Similarly, researchers at Konkuk University in Seoul recently concluded that sexual activity also counteracts stress-related memory loss in mice. However, you may want to think twice before tossing that LSAT prep book to the side and checking your Tinder connections. Psychologists warn that although sex can speed up the rate at which new brain cells are produced, you do actually have to take the time to learn something to increase their survival. So, basically, try to squeeze a quickie in before your study group.
Now for the news some folks may not want to hear: Childless couples report feeling happier with their partner and relationship than those who have kids. A survey conducted by the UK’s Open University found that both men and women who do not have children ranked the quality of their relationship more highly than those who do. In other words, yes, you might really be the reason that Dad ran off with his secretary.
Photos by Juhasz Peter/ Getty Images | Licensed to Alpha Media Group 2014
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