Masturbation is something that many people do, but it’s not always easy to talk about. Recently, there have been some rumors going around that it can actually help with weight loss. But is there any truth in this? Let’s get into the research and see what’s really going on.
What the Research Says
There has not been any scientific research specifically into whether masturbation helps with weight loss. But, there are some studies that talk about how it can affect the energy you expend and your metabolism, which are both important things to consider when controlling your weight.
A study conducted in 2023 found that men can burn as many as 100 calories in just 15 minutes of intense masturbation. The study, published in Scientific Reports, included 10 healthy adult men and found that they burned an average of 104 extra calories per session compared to sitting.
The researchers also suggested that masturbation could be like a light workout, burning about 4.2 calories per minute. Another 2012 study also found that heart rate and blood pressure levels increase slightly during masturbation.
So, it seems like masturbating may give you a little boost in energy and metabolism, but it doesn’t burn very many calories. Researchers believe more studies with larger and more diverse groups are needed to truly understand the effects.
In terms of burning calories, it is kind of like brisk jogging or walking. Although it may help a little with weight management, it probably won’t make a big difference in weight loss on its own.
There have been no studies that directly tracked changes in people’s masturbation habits as well as their weight and body composition over time. Therefore, any claims that masturbation directly leads to weight loss are mere speculation. We need more research on this particular topic.
Indirect Factors to Consider
Although masturbation may not directly lead to significant weight loss, there are some indirect ways in which it can help manage weight:
- For some people, masturbation can be a great way to relax and relieve stress. Chronic stress has been linked to overeating, weight gain, and obesity, so by helping to reduce stress, masturbation could potentially help with weight management.
- Getting a good night’s sleep is important for weight loss because orgasms release hormones that make you feel relaxed and sleepy, which can help you fall asleep faster. Masturbation can also help some people get distracted easily. Plus, better sleep can help regulate your hunger hormones and aid weight loss.
- Feeling more confident. Masturbation helps people feel more in tune with their bodies and enjoy themselves, which can make them feel better about themselves, improve their relationships, and increase their self-esteem. All these things can motivate a person to live a healthy lifestyle.
- Various food options. Masturbation can be a way to take your mind off stress or boredom, which can sometimes lead to overeating or choosing unhealthy foods.
So, like, even if you don’t burn a ton of calories masturbating, it can still have some positive effects on stress, sleep, motivation, and eating habits that can help manage your weight. But, you know, we still need more research to really prove all this.
Potential Downsides
Many experts think that masturbation is quite safe and good for you, as long as you don’t overdo it. But there are some potential downsides to think about, too.
- Spending too much time on self-pleasure can drain your energy and take away from other things like working out and losing weight. It’s all about finding that sweet spot.
- Just be careful – if you’re pushing it too hard, you might get a little irritation there. This can play with your enthusiasm and confidence. So, make sure to use some lube to avoid any discomfort.
- Depression. So, like, when you masturbate, it can totally help with stress and anxiety, you know? But some people may feel a little more lonely or sad afterward. And, as such, your emotional well-being completely impacts how motivated you are to make changes in your life and lose weight.
- When it comes to libido and relationship problems, some people may find that masturbating makes them less interested in having sex with their partner. Having a healthy sexual desire and being intimate is important for overall happiness.
If you’re using masturbation for your health or to lose weight, just remember to take it easy, take care of yourself, and pay attention to how you’re feeling emotionally.
The Bottom Line
Recent research shows that when you masturbate, your metabolism gets a slight boost, which may help you lose weight. But it seems that the number of calories burned is actually very low. We still need further studies to confirm whether there is any real connection between masturbation and long-term weight change.
Masturbation can actually help meet weight loss goals by reducing stress, improving sleep, increasing self-confidence, and helping prevent mindless eating. However, relying on it as a way to avoid exercise or other healthy activities can actually hinder weight management.
Basically, if you incorporate masturbation into your healthy routine, along with adequate exercise, good food, close relationships, and effective ways to deal with stress, it can give you a little extra help in managing your weight.
But, like, the connections are vague and not really direct. So, like, there’s really no solid evidence that masturbation leads to significant weight loss. Simply adopt a healthy lifestyle to have better control over your weight and overall health.