Study links partners to lower post-meal glucose

A study led by researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Sheba Medical Center found that people had smaller post-meal blood sugar spikes and returned to baseline faster when eating with a close partner than when eating alone. The researchers describe this as “social physiology,” the idea that social connection can influence basic bodily regulation. They also reported that being near a partner was associated with better temperature regulation during cold exposure and reduced stress responses; these effects were observed without physical touch. The findings suggest that relationships may affect physical health as well as emotional well-being, though the researchers say further work is needed to explore potential health applications.