Enhanced immune system linked to increased attractiveness due to external physique, research suggests
In a groundbreaking study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, researchers have found that a well-functioning immune system can significantly impact perceived attractiveness in both men and women. The study, which involved 159 participants and was devoid of makeup, jewelry, or distinctive hairstyles, aimed to delve into the factors influencing attractiveness beyond mere outer appearance.
The research team analyzed the immune systems of the participants, focusing on the so-called bacterial defense force, the activity of natural killer cells (NK cells), and certain inflammation markers. The study revealed that higher NK cell activity in men was associated with being perceived as more attractive, while in women, strong bacterial defense was linked to being rated as more attractive.
However, the connections between the immune system and attractiveness differed for men and women. In women, high NK cell activity was linked to lower fertility, which may have influenced the perception. On the other hand, testosterone-driven masculine traits in men, such as a strong jawline, muscularity, height, body hair, and a deep voice, may serve as indicators of a strong immune system due to testosterone's immunosuppressant properties.
The study indicates that attractiveness has to do with more than just outer appearance. Our body, particularly the immune system, seems to send unconscious signals that others perceive. For instance, a well-functioning immune system supports healthier skin by producing adequate collagen and elastin, which maintain skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles. Good sleep, which impacts immune function, also contributes to perceived attractiveness by promoting skin repair and clarity.
The results suggest that attractiveness is more than just a matter of taste or fashion. Nearly 500 test persons evaluated the attractiveness of the photographs in the study, providing a diverse sample of opinions. The study did not discuss the role of beauty food in promoting attractiveness, nor did it provide information on the age of the participants or how the attractiveness evaluation was conducted.
In summary, a strong immune system can indirectly affect attractiveness by fostering symmetrical physical traits and healthier skin, which serve as biological signals of fitness and health to potential mates in both men and women. However, while certain traits are linked to immune health, the strength and consistency of these signals’ influence on perceived attractiveness show some variability across studies.
[1] Study: Attractiveness and Genetic Health in Women, Journal of Evolutionary Biology [2] The Evolution of Human Facial Attractiveness: A Meta-analysis, Evolution and Human Behavior [3] The Role of Sleep in Skin Health, Sleep Medicine Clinics [4] The Immune System's Impact on Skin Appearance, Journal of Investigative Dermatology [5] The Link Between Immune System and Attractiveness: A Review, Frontiers in Psychology
- A well-functioning immune system, as indicated by higher NK cell activity in men, can reportedly lead to increased perceived attractiveness.
- The immune system's role in attractiveness is not universal, as the study showed that strong bacterial defense in women resulted in higher attractiveness ratings.
- The research study did not specifically focus on the role of specific medical conditions or chronic diseases like COPD, type-2 diabetes, or chronic kidney disease in influencing perceived attractiveness.
- Despite differences between men and women, both genders can benefit from optimal immune system function for maintaining better digestive health and eye health, which indirectly contribute to attractiveness.
- Issues like ear infections related to hearing problems or skin conditions like psoriasis might not be directly linked to attractiveness, but therapies and treatments for these conditions may improve overall health and wellness, indirectly impacting attractiveness.
- Some neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease or multiple sclerosis do not seem to have an immediate connection to perceived attractiveness, but maintaining mental health in dealing with such conditions can contribute to a positive image.
- Study results suggest that fitness and exercise care positively impact the immune system, helping to lower the risk of developing chronic diseases like cancer or cardiovascular diseases, which indirectly influence attractiveness.
- Migraine and respiratory conditions like COPD may not contribute directly to perceived attractiveness, but their management contributes to overall health and wellness, which could have an indirect influence.
- CBD, commonly used for therapies and treatments related to various medical conditions, has yet to be studied extensively for its impact on perceived attractiveness.
- Apart from the immune system, the role of autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis in determining attractiveness has not been explored in this study, but they may impact health and fitness, indirectly influencing attractiveness.
- The study did not consider the impact of therapies and treatments for skin conditions, such as acne or wrinkles, on perceived attractiveness – focusing instead on the primary role of the immune system.
- Facial structure and features related to attractiveness, such as a strong jawline or deep voice, are often associated with testosterone-driven masculine traits, which may indicate a strong immune system.
- The role of overall wellbeing in promoting fitness and exercise, including breast cancer awareness and prevention, may indirectly impact attractiveness by improving health, but this area requires further research.
- It is essential to consider that the attractiveness evaluation process in the study did not account for factors like age and the specific role of beauty foods in promoting attractiveness, leaving these aspects for future exploration.
