Iconica
Over the last century, study after study has documented the so-called "marriage advantage"--namely, that getting hitched can provide a range of benefits to your health, lowering your risk of everything from pneumonia and cancer to dementia.
But there's a catch. Turns out the marriage itself has to be healthy if you're going to enjoy the health benefits. Researchers have found that being in a troubled marriage may actually be worse for your wellbeing than staying single.
“Getting unconditional support during the hard times and encouragement to follow good lifestyle practices are what help married folks do better physically,” explains Alice Domar, Ph.D., director of the Domar Center for Mind/Body Health in Waltham, Massachusetts.
Want to get the most from your marriage? Keep reading for tips on how to make yours a healthier union.