Brazil's Health Minister recommended that his nation's inhabitants have sex five times a week as a remedy for chronic ailments such as diabetes and hypertension.

According to the Associated Press, almost one quarter of Brazilians suffer from high blood pressure.

Specialists say that whilst sex might not treat chronic sicknesses, it does offer some health benefits.

Jamie Feldman, Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, told ABC News, "You're not going to get the same physical health benefit as going out for a 2-mile jog. Sexual activity provides some degree of modest exercise. But it's not the same as getting moderate exercise for 30 minutes a day".

But it can reduce the blood pressure over a span of time, says Israel Helfand, Sex Therapist and Marriage Counsellor. He added that for this to ensue, it must be done vigorously.

Helfand says that sex also raises the body's "happy" hormones like dopamine and cortisol. It offsets depression, enhances energy and improves people's disposition.

Consultant Sexologist, Eric Garrison indicates its calorie-lowering benefits, also. He says that studies reveal that sex is acknowledged to mitigate headaches and sinus pressure because it augments blood flow in the head.

He adds, "So the ‘not tonight, I have a headache,' excuse doesn't really work".

According to Ian Kerner, Ph. D., a certified Clinical Sexologist, sex is also known to boost the immune system, help you enjoy a pleasant relation with your spouse, and make you feel more connected with your other half.