Humans have been pursuing sex since the dawn of time. It rules supreme in our conscious and subconscious brains. It can sell everything from Hondas to Hot Pockets.

But perhaps this fixation goes deeper than physical pleasure. Health expert Eric Plasker, D.C., says that sex has the ability to prolong our life and enhance its quality.

He is the author of The 100 Year Lifestyle, and he sat down with Girl Talk to explain why sex is part of that plan.

How does sex improve your quality of life? E-mail Leah at lashafer@gmail .com.

A: Companionship, connection, intimacy and touch make people feel loved. Having a deep connection with another human being on a sexual level is a vital part of health and happiness.

Q: Does sex benefit young and old people differently?

A: Sex benefits older people the same way it benefits younger people, and it keeps older people feeling young. Staying healthy is extremely important, because young people who are not healthy don't want to have sex. We've all heard the expression, "Not now honey, I have a headache." Living a proactive health and wellness lifestyle makes being sexually active a possibility as you age.

Q: What are the health benefits of orgasms?

A: Orgasms release a rush of hormones, and endorphins are one of the cocktail's main ingredients. Similar in chemical structure to morphine, endorphins can relieve pain, control the body's response to stress, and even improve mood and alleviate depression.

Regular intercourse can cut the chance of a heart attack or stroke by up to half, increase antibodies that boost the immune system, improve bladder control and regulate intestinal contractions, release minerals that prevent tooth decay, sharpen the sense of smell and reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Staying sexually active can increase both the length and quality of life.

Q: Sex actually improves health?

A: Sex relieves stress, keeps you feeling young, boosts your immunity, provides enjoyable exercise, improves your mood and brings you closer in your intimate relationships.

Q: How much physical exercise is provided by sex?

A: Just being aroused can heighten heart rates and more than double a person's pulse, and burned calories and tightened abs are well- known side effects of sex. While sex does burn calories and is good for you physically, the emotional and spiritual benefits of sex are even greater.