5 Performance-Enhancing Benefits Of Sex

Manchester City supremo Pep Guardiola has slapped a ban on his players having sex after midnight but are they missing out on important health benefits?

According to recent quotes from on-loan French playmaker Samir Nasri the no-sex rules are in a bid to reduce the risk of muscle injuries — something that supposedly worked wonders for Barcelona forward Lionel Messi. But research shows there are a host of mind and body benefits you — and Nasri and Co—can enjoy from a bit of after-midnight delight. Here’s our top five.

1 It reduces anxiety and stress

A session of nighttime nookie can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety levels and help you take stressful situations — say, worrying about looming match — in your stride, according to one study. High blood pressure also puts pressure on your blood vessels, which can cause problems with your cardiovascular system, erectile function in men and arousal and ability to achieve orgasm in women.

Further reading: 5 Easy Steps For Healthy Muscles

2 It boosts your immune system

University students who had sex a few times a week had higher levels of immunoglobulin A, an antibody that helps fight infections and the common cold, in their saliva, according to a study published in Psychology Reports. Levels were highest in couples who had regular sex a couple times a week. At the very least it’ll do a darn sight more good than a snood.

A session of nighttime nookie can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety levels and help you take stressful situations in your stride.

3 It provides natural pain relief

Struggling with sore joints or tight muscles? Sex is the remedy. Knocking boots releases a cocktail of powerful hormones and endorphins, generating feelings of euphoria and pleasure that can help you forget about any pain.

Struggling with sore joints or tight muscles? Sex is the remedy.

4 It helps you think clearly

University of Amsterdam research found sex can improve people’s analytical thinking, while a study on sexually active rodents identified an increase in neurons in the hippocampus — part of the brain that stores memories — compared to their celibate friends. Doing the deed the night before a match or big presentation could help you put in a show-stopping performance when it matters.

Further reading: Let’s Drink To Your Muscle Health

5 It makes you sleep soundly

During and after sex, the brain releases powerful hormones including oxytocin, serotonin, norepinephrine and vasopressin, which can help you slip into a blissful night’s sleep. It’s especially true for men because part of the brain responsible for interpreting and responding to new information, called the prefrontal cortex, winds down considerably after orgasm.

So what are you worried about Pep? Your players will get enough shut eye to perform on the pitch — regardless of how they perform between the sheets.

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