Protein may be linked to better sex and overall wellbeing.

A sex educator argues that prioritising sexual pleasure supports physical health and relationships, and offers seven practical tips such as scheduling weekly intimacy and improving communication.

If your sex life feels neglected, the article argues it is often treated like an occasional treat rather than an essential part of wellbeing. It reports that pleasure and satisfying sex are linked to benefits such as lower risks of heart disease and dementia and improvements in immune and cognitive function. Dr Nicole McNichols, described in the article as a leading sex educator, says better sex is within reach and outlines seven practical approaches to integrate intimacy into busy lives. The piece frames these practices as ways to create a virtuous cycle of pleasure that can positively affect other areas of life. Key points: - The article reports studies showing a significant health and relational benefit to having satisfying sex about once a week, with benefits leveling off beyond that frequency. - Kissing during sex is reported to increase the likelihood of orgasm in women. - Introducing one new sexual experience per month, described as "micro-novelty," is reported to help maintain interest and excitement. - The article reports an "orgasm gap" in straight sex, with men experiencing orgasm about 95% of the time and women about 65%. - The article reports that 59% of women and 25% of men have faked an orgasm at some point. Summary: The article presents research and the teaching of Dr Nicole McNichols linking regular, satisfying sexual connection to a range of health and relational benefits and offers seven practical strategies to increase intimacy. It highlights specific findings such as weekly intimacy benefits, the role of kissing, the value of micro-novelty, and statistics on the orgasm gap and faking orgasms. Dr Nicole McNichols' guide is noted as published on February 3. Undetermined at this time.