Men and women between the ages of 50 and 60 rank sex among their favorite pastimes, compared with 30-year-olds who don’t pay much attention to it, a survey of 1,000 people shows. After gardening and dining out, sex is the 3rd most popular pastime among 50-year-olds. Almost one out of every 5 of them (18%) puts it first on the list. For those surveyed between the ages of 30-40, the most popular pastimes are going to the gym, to bars and restaurants, and watching TV. Sex is only tenth on the list in this age group, with only 3% saying it is their favorite activity. The over-50s’ favorite pastime — sex — reflects a trend toward simple pleasures in tough economic times, the study’s authors say. Over-50s feel happier, more confident, and more satisfied with their appearance and sex lives than the younger generation, is confirmed by another recently conducted study. For the purposes of the study, 13,403 people over 50 years of age were surveyed. More than 60% say that the sex they practice now is more fulfilling than when they were in their 20s and 30s. Irregular sex life increases the risk of getting a heart attack, another study showed. Scientists from Tufts and Harvard universities in Boston reviewed the results of 14 previous studies and found that “episodic activity” carried a two and a half times higher risk of heart attack and sudden death. The benefits of regular sex life are not only about health of our cardiovascular system. Carnal pleasures reduce stress and tension and boost immunity. It is known that having sex once or twice a week is associated with higher levels of antibodies – immunoglobulins, which protects against colds and other infections. With 30 minutes of sex, we burn over 85 calories. During sex, the levels of endorphins increase , which helps to reduce the feeling of pain. When experiencing an orgasm, oxytocin is produced, which promotes restful sleep.