“I Do” makes men healthy says a new study. Householders familiar with both sides of the coin give their verdict

“I Do” makes men healthy says a new study. Householders familiar with both sides of the coin give their verdict

Here’s news for all commitment-phobic men — getting hitched is good for health. Researchers at the University of Arizona found that a long marriage lowers a man’s chance of developing serious health problems and is more effective in guarding against fatal diseases than giving up smoking. Marriage reduces a man’s risk of developing ailments by 10.34 per cent and trumps the benefits of normal pressure levels and of not smoking. These statistics are indicative of the effects of having strong social bonds, say scientists. Do men who have tasted the shaadi ka laddoo agree? Read on.
KUMAR ANISH
Insurance professional
Marriage turns your lifestyle upside down. My wife pushes me to work out more often, the house is infinitely cleaner now; I eat breakfast regularly and watch my diet.
Mentally, I’m not so sure! There are restrictions, you have to deal with moods and family. But it has made me more serious and responsible.
ADIL MARAWALA
Creative writer
A nine-year-old relationship (three as a married couple) is my recipe for good health. Earlier, I never found time for exercising. But thanks to my wife, I have now joined a fitness programme. It’s great fun to keep tabs and help each other lose weight. Even if we fight, I remind myself that we’re burning calories.
Being in a long commitment is comforting. Your partner cheers you up when you are low. The comfort and security does a world of good.
SAURAB CHATURVEDI Strategy planner
If you marry the right person, for the right reason, it is undoubtedly good for you. You feel positive and supported, a boon in these stressful lives. More importantly, you do things with a sense of stability and structure. You think long-term — be it joining a gym or buying a house. The same experiences have a new facet. I have re-ignited my love for theatre and enjoy evenings out with my wife.
Physically too, I have become more aware. Men can be quite competitive about the way they look. Contrary to popular belief, after marriage you tend to get more conscious about that flabby arm, pot belly or double chin!
MIT SETHI
Freelance consultant
If marriage makes a man healthy, does it mean a twice-married man is healthier than the rest? These stud-—COORDINATED BY LEKHA MENON
ies should be taken with a pinch of salt.
My first marriage lasted 23 years before my wife passed away. I remarried, but separated few years later. In both relationships, my health was the same! After my first marriage, I gained a lot more kilos, but never had any major health problems.
A good relationship takes care of your worries which contributes to good health. If your relationship gives you tension, obviously, there will be other problems too.