Hugs work wonder for women

A study suggests that a woman's heart health may benefit more from hugs than a man's.

Women's heart health may benefit more from hugs than men's, according to a study.

A team from the University of North Carolina studied the effects of hugging on both partners in 38 couples. The study showed hugs increased levels of oxytocin, a "bonding" hormone, and reduced blood pressure - which cuts the risk of heart disease. But, writing in the Psychosomatic Medicine, the researchers said women recorded greater reductions in blood pressure than men after their hugs.

This growing body of research only goes to highlight how important social support is for everyone, not just those in a relationship The study also found all women had reduced levels of cortisol following the hug, as well as reporting the blood pressure benefits. The researchers, led by psychologist Dr Karen Grewen, wrote in Psychosomatic Medicine: "Greater partner support is linked to higher oxytocin levels for both men and women.

"However, the importance of oxytocin and its potentially cardioprotective effects may be greater for women." "Scientists are increasingly interested in the possibility that positive emotions can be good for your health," Dr Charmaine Griffiths, spokesperson for the British Heart Foundation, was quoted by the BBC, as saying.

"This study has reinforced research findings that support from a partner, in this case a hug from a loved one, can have beneficial effects on heart health. "British Heart Foundation researchers have already demonstrated links between a positive emotional state, such as happiness, and low levels of the stress hormone, cortisol," she added.