THE FACTS BEHIND THE FANTASY

Oxytocin, sometimes known as the "cuddle hormone" or the "love hormone," because it is released when people snuggle up or interact, is a hormone that also acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain. It is secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland and is thought to be released during hugging, touching, and orgasm in both sexes.

Fact: All you need to do is simply hug or shake someone's hand. The simple act of bodily contact will cause your brain to release low levels of oxytocin. Even thinking about contact with another being can produce oxytocin.

Fact: When you're sexually aroused or excited, oxytocin levels increase in your brain significantly, and can even extend and enhance orgasms. During the orgasm itself, the brain is flooded with oxytocin. Some say it explains the reason some like to cuddle afterward.

Fun Fact: Oxytocin plays a significant role in forging our ability to spark and maintain relationships, empathize, trust, and even love one another.

However, while oxytocin increases in-group trust, it produces the opposite feeling for those in the out-group. Even hormones can be haters.