What’s a more natural way to express affection for another person, than by kissing? This sign of care isn’t limited to lovers and those in relationships, for we also kiss babies on the cheek and friends upon greeting. Yet did you know there are actually scientifically proven health benefits to kissing?
Kissing Releases Positive Hormones
When kissing another person, the brain releases several hormones that make us feel good. One of these is dopamine, the hormone that boosts and regulates our mood. Kissing also signals the brain to release ocytocin, the love hormone that helps us create bonds with partners and babies. Both are solid factors in keeping us positive and optimistic daily.
Locking Lips Heightens Your Alertness
Kissing stimulates a chemical response in the body, causing it to release adrenaline and noradrenaline. These chemicals are responsible for making you feel excited as well as making your body more alert as your heart rate increases. This means you are more perceptive to responding to any threats with the necessary actions.
Kissing Reduces Your Chances Of Cavities
Every time you kiss someone, your salivary glands produce more saliva. In addition to helping you swallow food, saliva is important in removing food particles caught between your teeth, which if not removed or cleaned can turn into cavities. A little smooch can go a long way!
Smooches Reduces Stress
One study by the Western Journal of Communication found that physical forms of affection help to reduce the “physiological effects of stress.” Kisses are considered one of these top exchanges, and were found to inhibit the prime stress hormone cortisol. All the more reason to pucker up after a long work day!
A Natural Healing Remedy
Love and lust both help to promote physical and mental healing. By releasing feel-good hormones, kissing helps your body stay in top form, and reduces your body’s stress levels so that it can focus more on recovery. Therefore, your injuries and mental health can all be improved with a little help of a peck!
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