Kissing can actually aid weight loss and improve gut health
It's Valentine's Day and for those loved-up couples among us that likely means stealing a kiss or two from your special someone. Aww.
But as well as upping the romance levels, there are actually some science-backed health benefits of partaking in a good smooch.
Yep according to experts, locking lips can do everything from boosting your immunity to improving your gut health. There's even some suggestion it could aid your weight loss efforts.
Plus, it’s a brilliant way to keep your stress levels down and your mood high.
So, whether it’s snuggling up on the sofa with a loved one or getting caught up in the moment with someone new, here’s a whole list of incentives to get kissing.
Gut health benefits
It may come as a surprise, but there is a connection between kissing and gut health. "The exchange of bacteria during kissing may introduce beneficial microbes to the oral microbiome, which can transition to the digestive system and gut microbiome," explains Adrienne Benjamin nutritionist for ProVen Probiotics.
While research has not yet clearly correlated specific benefits of kissing for the gut Benjamin suggests couples complement their kissing routine with probiotic-rich foods and supplements for a comprehensive approach to gut health.
Helps you lose weight (sort of)
According to a 2013 report on philematology (aka the scientific study of kissing—yes, there's an actual term for it) casual smooching involving little more than lip action will burn only two to three calories per minute. However, the study, published in the American Journal of Medicine, estimates more intense kissing might burn up to 26 calories per minute.
Ok, so you may not want to completely swap jogging for snogging, but next time you’re lounging on the sofa watching Netflix, why not go in for a calorie-burning kiss?
Relieves stress
Stressful day? Ease away the tension with a good smooch. "Kissing can help to reduce stress levels by triggering the release of endorphins, such as oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin, commonly known as ‘feel-good’ hormones," Benjamin explains.
"As stress is a prevalent concern in today’s fast paced society, incorporating moments of affection into our daily routine may provide a natural and enjoyable stress-relief solution."
Soothes headaches
The act of kissing has been linked to headache relief through the dilation of blood vessels and possible reduction in blood pressure and stress levels. "This potential alternative for those seeking relief from tension headaches is definitely worth a try before reaching for medication," Benjamin adds.
Increases immunity
The transfer of saliva during kissing exposes the body to different bacteria, with a 10-second kiss being said to result in an average of 80 million bacteria being transferred from one kisser to the other.
Studies carried out in the Netherlands in 2014 found that 80 million bacteria are transferred during a ten-second kiss, and rather than making us ill, this actually helps to boost our body’s defences
"This exposure can help support and stimulate the immune system, contributing to an improved immune response," Benjamin adds.
Tones your facial muscles
While a quick peck uses only a couple of facial muscles, a passionate kiss engages as many as 23 to 24 facial muscles and 112 postural muscles.
So, if you fear you’re beginning to suffer the curse of the saggy jowls, try tightening things up with some regular vigorous kissing – only if you have someone whose just as keen, of course.
Improves oral health
A kiss a day keeps the dentist away. Well, in a manner of speaking.
Kissing increases saliva production and this saliva washes away bacteria that can cause cavities, tooth decay and plaque build-up.
"While good oral hygiene is still essential, the antibacterial properties in saliva may support dental health by balancing pH levels and washing away acids that erode tooth enamel over time," explains Naheed Ali, physician, nutritionist, and senior medical and health writer at Sweat Block.
Overall benefits
So the next time you pucker up with your sweetheart, remember - you're not just connecting emotionally.
"You're optimising digestion, torching calories, benefiting your blood pressure, supporting your immune system, and even helping your smile!" Ali adds.
Gut health: Read more
How alcohol impacts your gut health (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read)
How coffee can positively impact your gut health (Yahoo Life UK, 3-min read)
How your gut health affects your mental health (Yahoo Life UK, 4-min read)
