Social bonds are critical for survival and adaptation, and as such have direct implications for our health.

How to evaluate this? Biomarkers are objective tools for quantifying biological phenomena, generating evidence for “subjective” aspects of human existence. A recent study* evaluates biomarkers in periods of bonding and shows that during the first 4-6 months of a romantic relationship, plasma markers show a similar pattern, yet to a lesser extent, to that of first-time parents during the first 6 months of parenthood. Levels of oxytocin (binding, “love hormone”), beta-endorphin (reward and well-being), and IL-6 (stress/immune system) are higher in these two groups than in non-attached singles, and correlated with other measures of behavioral synchrony.

Affiliation, reward and stress management systems are highly complex, and the published results can provide a first step towards understanding the interrelationship between these systems during bonding. The use of biomarkers allows, in an objective way, to quantify the involvement of neuro-hormonal and immune systems in the affective relations of healthy adults.

Translating: relationships that involve affection are likely to have positive impact on our health. Physical affection such as hugs and cuddling release oxytocin, the marker of bonding, that can be quantified in lab tests. Evidence for the role of oxytocin, in regulating anxiety is undeniable. Oxytocin is also involved in modulating quality of sleep, saciety, and stress management.

Affectionate contact is so necessary for a healthy life that we suffer when we don’t get enough. Taking good care of our relationships is an act of self-care!

*Ulmer-Yaniv et al. / Brain, Behavior, and Immunity 56 (2016) 130–139.

By Carolina Tuma
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/biological-measurements-affection-m-carolina-tuma/