London - Money, the mother-in-law, which TV channel to watch... the possibilities for rows between husband and wife are endless.
But while an argument might clear the air it is likely to be bad for your health, according to medical researchers.
A 20-year study of married life found that couples who do not argue are more likely to stay healthy and live longer than those who do.
Among the most common subjects causing the arguments that lead to health problems are finance and the in-laws.
When it comes to the vow “in sickness and in health”, it seems to depend on how much friction there is in the marriage, said the American researchers.
They followed nearly 1 700 married adults over two decades, measuring both their physical health and responses to regular surveys on arguments, happiness and quality of life.
And they found that the more they argued, the worse their general health, suggesting that being happily married is a key to long life.
The reason could be that a contented couple do more to look after each other, the researchers from Brigham Young University in Utah told the Journal of Marriage and Family.
They are more likely to cook and eat healthier meals together, for instance, rather than one storming off to the pub or staying late at work eating junk food.
Less stress means they sleep better, and if they get on they will encourage each other to drop bad habits, such as smoking, and to keep doctors appointments, for example. Also, when couples get on they do other things together such as sport or other beneficial outdoor activities. - Daily Mail
Source: IOL Lifestyle
