In the study, researchers at the University of California in San Francisco tracked the sex lives of a group of 129 mothers in relations for one week. The participants were asked to provide a daily report of their overall relationship satisfaction, as well as instances of conflict, support, and intimacy with their partners.
The researchers then compared the women's reports to their blood samples and in doing so, they found a fascinating pattern. It was discovered that mothers who were intimate with their partners at least once during that week had a significantly longer telomeres-protective cap on DNA strands and the part of a cell responsible for aging - in comparison to those who did not.
But what do telomeres have to do with a longer life? Over time, the telomeres found in your cells break down due to aging, poor diet and high alcohol consumption. However, the findings have shown that regular intercourse can repair and lengthen them, keeping cells healthy and young.
Of course, such a small study warrants further research, and there are plenty of other science-backed ways to extend your life. But, previous studies have suggested that couples should be intimate at least once a week to reap most rewards.