The more orgasms you have, the longer you can expect to live. Know more

Everyone knows that good sex feels fabulous at any age. But what's not as well known is that a regular roll in the hay can also add up to eight years to your life expectancy.

Regular sex improves hormone levels, heart health and brain power and revs up your immune system - so you can hold on to your youth while you enjoy yourself.

A: Aim for orgasm
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It's not just the amount of sex you're having that counts when it comes to adding years to your life - it's the quality, too. A study discovered that a powerful orgasm is equivalent to a shot of Valium, a drug a drug that relieves stress, and works immediately as a relaxant. It can also increase the body's infection-fighting cells by up to 20 per cent.

Several studies have shown happily married couples are likely to live longer than singles or those in negative relationships. Even more impressive is the fact that regular orgasms make men twice as likely to live into old age as those who don't have sex, and women to live up to eight years longer. Also women who have two orgasms a week are up to 30 per cent less likely to develop heart diseases.

Make the most of it: Boost your orgasm potential by investing in a sex toy

B: cuddle up
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Cuddling isn't just an enjoyable aspect of good sex — it also helps to release the 'bonding hormone' oxytocin, which has been linked to life expectancy.

Babies and even animals that are deprived of this hormone, which is triggered by positive touching, often fail to thrive. Research has found that oxytocin can dramatically boost longevity and people in relationships are less vulnerable to chronic diseases and depression.

Make the most of it: Cuddling can make you want to get closer with your beloved, as oxytocin is produced in greater quantities with a familiar partner. A sensual massage, lots of stroking and intimate touches will help you go a long way

C: Cook up a storm
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To enjoy good sex, it helps if you're in the mood - which is why brain chemicals are so important. A lack of desire is the result of a reduction in one of the four brain chemicals  dopamine, acetylcholine, GABA and serotonin. To get them up to speed again, certain herbs and spices can help. For dopamine, which enhances mood and confidence, try basil, black pepper, chillies, cumin, garlic, ginger and turmeric.

Acetylcholine helps improve alertness and focus so try all-spice, basil, peppermint, sage and thyme. GABA, a natural antidepressant, is found in alcohol - but just one or two glasses of red wine will do the trick. Serotonin boosts happiness and relaxation so try turkey, bananas and chocolate.

Make the most of it: Cook up a light vegetable curry served with saffron rice (also a libido booster) to get you in the mood

D: work up a sweat
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It's common knowledge that exercise helps keep you fit, improves circulation and muscle tone and staves off the ageing process, but going to the gym can be hard work.

So it's good news that sex provides almost all the same benefits as regular exercise, without having to hit the treadmill. It increases circulation and metabolism and burns about 30 calories for 20 minutes of reasonably active sex. That means in an hour you've burnt off a glass of wine or a couple of biscuits.

And when it comes to good bone health and avoiding osteoporosis in later life, it's equally good news.

Middle-aged women who have weekly sex have been found to have twice the bone-protecting oestrogen levels of those who don't.

Make the most of it: Keep sex fun by switching positions. If you always do it in missionary, speed up your heart rate by going on top for a change

E: More more more!
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It really is a case of use it or lose it and having sex at least once a week will keep your hormones, heart and brain in top condition. And the more you have, the better the benefits. Men who have sex three or more times a week reduce their risk of heart attack or stroke by 50 per cent. It's largely a myth that sex can trigger heart attacks, but if you're worried, don't over-do the aerobics and you'll still get the benefit of powerful relaxation hormones. Regular sex releases 'feel good' endorphins at any age, as well as easing stress.

Make the most of it: Have a 'sex date'. It doesn't have to be at bedtime — try it if the kids are out on Sunday afternoon or by sneaking home at lunch. Planned sex means you'll look forward to it more.