Introducing: “vitamin O”.
In the name of “self-improvement,” there are ample generally recommended points of entry: physical exercise, a small army of skin serums, financial advisory, multi-vitamins, the occasional Brené Brown novel.
And alternatively: there’s masturbation—a route that's beneficial in its self-sufficiency and easy to squeeze into your schedule (you’re only planning around...you). However, orgasm at large may have benefits beyond, well, pleasure, including some immuno-advantages. Case-in-point:
Hormone health
You know that sense of release that comes from, well, coming? It’s real. Orgasm is a natural anxiety reducer. It helps to decrease cortisol levels—the hormone most closely related to stress—which can work as both a sleep aid and a balm for endless, loaded workdays. And it can lend some luster back to your skin.
Sleep hygiene
Something else about those aforementioned stress-reducers: they’re great for sleep. The occasional bedtime orgasm is great for promoting a healthy rest—which, in turn, works wonders to keep your immune system up to par.
Heart rate
Sexual pleasure is also good for your heart rate. Doing the deed helps to spike both blood pressure and heart rate, just like any other form of cardio, which helps release endorphins, burn calories, and can lower the risk of a heart attack.
So, does masturbation boost immunity?
In a way. Some studies have shown that active orgasm can increase your white blood cell production, which is to say, there’s a direct link between getting off, and fighting disease. And it goes without saying that the former is far more fun than popping a vitamin C tablet.
While the medical community is not quite prepared to fully endorse masturbating as a go-to means of ramping up white blood cell production, there are hardly any downsides to adding the occasional O to your daily vitamin regimen. After all, your body will no doubt thank you for the more restful sleep, the glowing skin, and...everything else.
