Stress Reduction: Kissing can trigger the brain to release a cocktail of chemicals (like oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin) that boost your mood and lower stress. This happens as kissing decreases the stress hormone cortisol, making you feel more relaxed and content.
Improves Bonding: Oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," is released during kissing. It enhances feelings of attachment and intimacy, helping to strengthen relationships, especially in romantic partners.
Boosts Immunity: A kiss can expose you to new germs that stimulate your immune system to create antibodies. This is a form of immunotherapy. According to some studies, this exchange can also help you build immunity against certain diseases.
Dental Health: Kissing increases saliva production, which can help wash away bacteria on your teeth that might lead to cavities. While it's no substitute for brushing your teeth, increased saliva can aid in maintaining healthy tooth enamel.
Enhances Mood: Kissing releases endorphins, another group of neurotransmitters that provide feelings of happiness and well-being. It's why you might feel euphoric after a good kiss.
Calorie Burner: While it’s no replacement for a gym session, kissing can burn anywhere from 2 to 26 calories per minute. The intensity of the kiss might alter the number of calories burned.
Facial Muscle Exercise: Kissing involves the coordination of 34 facial muscles. The act helps strengthen these muscles, which can contribute to a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Heart Health: Kissing promotes heart health by helping reduce blood pressure. The dilation of blood vessels occurs during a passionate kiss, which helps blood flow to all parts of your body, effectively reducing your blood pressure and improving cardiac performance.