Does Masturbation Cause Weight Loss? Myths, Science & Surprising Facts Explained

You've probably heard all sorts of wild claims about what masturbation can or can’t do to your body. One question that keeps popping up in online forums and whispered conversations is this: does masturbation cause weight loss? It’s a curious mix of science, myth, and personal experience, and the truth might surprise you. In this article, we break down the facts, debunk the fiction, and explore what really happens to your body when you indulge in some solo time.

Let's get straight into it.

Does Masturbation Cause Weight Loss?

The answer is no. It doesn't. No scientific evidence claims that masturbation can lead to significant weight loss. Though it helps burn a few calories because of the energy used during the process, it's very low. The calories burned are not sufficient to shed significant or considerable pounds and contribute to weight loss.

These techniques might help burn more calories while having masturbation:

• move your fingers and hands harder and faster

• vigorously use the sex toys in your vagina

• experiment with different positions, like moving your abdomen and hips up and down, while using toys

• explore the body areas that can stimulate pleasure on touching, while stimulating your vagina and clitoris

However, these practices are not suitable ways to lose fat. For proper weight management, a well-balanced diet and regular exercise are key. 

How Many Calories Does Masturbation Burn?

The number of calories masturbation helps burn varies based on many factors, such as intensity, time, and physical involvement. In general:

• A typical one session of masturbation may burn off around 5 to 10 calories, similar to light stretching and walking for a few minutes.

• If orgasms happen, it might have a minimal impact.

When compared to 30 minutes of strength training, jogging, or swimming,  which can reduce 200 to 400 calories, masturbation can't be considered the right weight-loss strategy.

Can Masturbation Indirectly Affect Your Weight?

Though masturbation does not directly contribute to weight loss, it can indirectly help. How? Take a look:

• Reduces Stress: By releasing oxytocin and dopamine (which are feel-good chemicals), masturbation can relieve stress. This helps control emotions and prevents the chances of stress eating.

• Improves Sleep: Orgasm during masturbation can lead to better sleep, which can assist in maintaining healthy metabolism and managing weight.

• Helps with Hormonal Balance: Ejaculating regularly may help regulate certain hormones, which can support overall health. However, its effect on weight is very minimal. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Masturbation You Should Know About

Masturbation in moderation can be beneficial. However, engaging in it frequently can be problematic. Have a look at the advantages and disadvantages of masturbation: 

See More: What Are The Disadvantages of Releasing Sperm Daily?

Common Myths About Masturbation and Weight Loss

Myth 1: Masturbation helps with weight loss by improving metabolism

Fact: As masturbation burns fewer calories, it does not have a long-lasting effect on metabolism.

Myth 2: Masturbation may impact hormone levels, which can help with weight management.

Fact: It contributes to minor and temporary changes in hormone balance that don't cause any significant impact on weight.

Myth 3: Masturbation decreases appetite.

Fact: This change is temporary, so it has no huge impact on weight management.

Ideal Ways to Lose Weight

If you want to lose weight, instead of masturbation, consider:

1. Well-Balanced Diet

A diet rich in nutritious food plays an important role in supporting healthy weight loss. Opt for a calorie-deficient diet, which involves consuming fewer calories than you burn throughout the day. It stimulates the body cells to use stored fat for energy, allowing them to function effectively, which, in turn, reduces body fat and contributes to weight loss. 

Add the following types of food to your daily diet to lose fat and promote overall health:

• Consume plenty of fresh and organic fruits and vegetables.  

• Eat whole grains instead of refined versions.  

• Choose lean protein such as legumes, beans, poultry, and fish.  

• Reduce the intake of trans and saturated fats.  

• Prefer portion sizes to prevent the chances of overeating.  

2. Regular Exercise

Regular physical exercise helps burn calories, improves muscle tone, and builds stamina, which contributes to a healthier and leaner physique.

Engage in the following types of exercises to burn off excess calories:

• Cardio exercises (such as running, brisk walking, and swimming)  

• Strength training (for instance, resistance and weights workouts)  

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT), as squat jumps, mountain climbers, cycling, and push-ups.

• Yoga poses and pilates  

Besides burning more calories, these exercises also enhance heart health, improve flexibility, and build muscles. 

3. Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep can contribute to weight management by:

• Regulating hunger hormones, like ghrelin, which reduces overeating, a 2022 study says.

• Improving metabolism, helping burn off more calories.

• Reducing cravings for foods highly rich in sugar and fats.

• Boosting energy to exercise regularly.

• Maintaining blood sugar levels that help prevent fat storage.

4. Stress Management

Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga, that can also help with weight management. They can:

• Decreases cortisol levels, a hormone that can increase appetite, according to a 2018 finding in the National Library of Medicine.

• Reduces the urge to eat to cope with anxiety or for comfort.

• Enhances digestion, which is responsible for poor nutrient absorption.

Help with mindful eating by making you aware of signals related to hunger and fullness. 

When to Get Concerned and Seek Medical Help?

It is not advised to consider masturbation for weight loss. If you excessively indulge in this practice and experience the following symptoms, see a doctor:

• Persistent pain or discomfort

• Blood in your urine and semen

• Painful or frequent ejaculation
  Becoming addicted to it and facing issues in personal and professional life

Also, if you are struggling to lose weight, instead of engaging in masturbation, speak to a dietitian or nutritionist, who can help with effective weight loss plans according to your needs. 

Also Read: Does Female Masturbation Cause Infertility? What Science Says

Final Thoughts

So, does masturbation cause weight loss? No, not really. While it may burn a few calories, it's nowhere near enough to replace proper exercise or a balanced diet. The idea might make for a catchy headline, but science doesn’t back it as a reliable weight loss method. That said, masturbation is a normal part of human sexuality and offers its own mental and physical health benefits, just not in the fat-burning department. So, if you're aiming to shed pounds, stick to proven strategies like consistent workouts, mindful eating, and healthy lifestyle choices.

If you are struggling to lose weight, seek help from a dietitian or nutritionist.

Remember, the weight loss journey is personal and unique to each individual. Focus on what makes you feel good, healthy, and strong!

Also Read: From Addiction to Empowerment: 12 Surprising Benefits of NoFap