What is the Science of Love?

Dear Michelle Valentine,
I started watching the beginning of a talk show that discussed the science of love and how love has significant consequences on physical and mental health. I missed the rest of the show that gave the information about how the chemical system in our bodies works to make you feel different when you're in love. It all sounded so interesting. . . got any info on the topic?

Dawn, Orlando

Dear Dawn,
The "science" of love is certainly a favorite subject of mine, so here's some fascinating information I'd love to relay to you: The chemical charges you experience when you are in love is so incredibly addictive, it should be outlawed! When you are in love, various chemicals such as dopamine are released in your brain that work very much like amphetamines (or the same kind of buzz that cocaine does). Notice how lovers have all that extra energy. . . they can stay awake all night without feeling tired the next day, they lose weight, they feel optimistic, giddy, and full-of-life. It's like they're high on a natural speed. Nature makes a man and a woman gaga for each other in the hope that they will get together and reproduce. Kind of a great way to make sure our species survive, yes? Studies show that attachment and feelings of closeness are essential to survival. When we're in love, our physiology is regulated: we get sick less frequently and we recover more quickly from illnesses. We physically look more vibrant. Heard of that "glow of love"? During the initial stages of love, our pupils dilate (making us look more attractive), our hearts pump harder (we become flushed in the face and chest), and we perspire more (appearing "glowing" and healthy). No wonder our desire to seek & find love is so intense. . . it feels incredibly wonderful!

Amore till next week