Kissing isn’t just about romance—it’s apparently good for your health too, a simple smooch does more than spark butterflies. Who knew kissing could be part of your self-care routine? I didn’t.
So, whether it’s a sweet peck or a passionate kiss, consider it a fun and healthy way to connect with someone special. Better Health explains that research on passionate kissing has revealed numerous health benefits, including emotional bonding, stress reduction, foreplay, metabolic boost, healthier mouth, and increased immunity.
Kissing is said to release calming neurotransmitters promoting physical and mental health, and can lead to sexual intercourse, which can protect against stress and depression. It is claimed that the more passionate the kiss, the greater the metabolic boost.
According to Samitivej Hospitals, kissing is a powerful way to express love and happiness, with the body producing endorphins, dopamine, and prolactin to make both parties feel warm and carefree. Kissing is also said to involve using various muscle groups and triggers five pairs of nerves, including the olfactory, trigeminal, facial, glossopharyngeal, vagus, and hypoglossal nerves.
“It has been found that French kissing for one minute can burn up to 26 calories. (To ensure that both parties are ready to kiss for any length of time, be sure to take care of your oral health.)
Kissing lowers blood pressure, relieves headaches and cramps, reduces blood cholesterol, increases immunity, and reduces allergic reactions, according to Medicine Net. It also stimulates saliva secretion, which helps combat infections in the mouth.
The above source adds that lip kissing can also improve blood flow to the skin, stimulate collagen and elastin production, and help determine physical compatibility with a potential partner.
Also see: Spending time away from your partner can strengthen your relationship, here’s how
