Having Sex Could Prevent the Flu

Photo:  Getty Images

So do you have the flu yet? If not, are you scared silly, just waiting for it to strike when you least expect it?

A more-than-decade-old study says that "popping the popcorn" can help prevent the flu. Apparently a little tumble in the sack can boost your immune system, especially if you do it at least twice a week. Here's how it works:

Immunoglobulin A, an antigen found in saliva and mucus membranes, is the first line of defense against cold and the flu. The study asked college students how often they "popped the popcorn" and then measured their levels of the antigen. Surprise, surprise, those who were having regular "you-know-what" had higher immune levels than those who didn't have it at all. Those who "popped the pocorn" once or twice a week had a 30 percent increase in the antigen over their celibate counterparts. (Celibate in college? Hey, this is a 15-year-old study!)

But don't get too hot and heavy. Those who had it more than three times a week actually had lower immune systems. What up wit dat? One doctor theorizes that people who have such active "love" lives may be in "obsessive or poor relationships that are causing them a lot of anxiety" and hence lowering their immune systems. Woah. Christian and Ana would surely have the flu.

So that's it, folks. If you're not up for a flu shot this year, maybe get up for a shot of another kind, if you catch my drift. Just don't overdo it, eh?

Whole lotta possibilities here.

Source:  cafemom.com / edited by KG