From the Scottish Daily Record:
A study says regular cuddles lower blood pressure and reduce levels of hormones which cause stress.
Researchers released the findings after an experiment involving 38 couples.
Each couple was split up and put in separate rooms for 20 minutes. The scientists tested their heart rates and blood pressure and took blood samples to check for stress hormones.
The couples were then reunited and asked to hug and hold hands while watching a clip of a romantic film.
After they had been together, the guinea pigs showed higher levels of brain chemical oxytocin, which is associated with calm, contentment and being in love.
Their stress hormone levels dropped and women also had lower blood pressure.
The study at the University of North Carolina was led by psychologist Dr Karen Grewen.
