We’ve all heard the expression,“love at first sight.”However, scientists are increasingly convinced that the reality is“love at first smell”when it comes to finding a mate. While it might not make for beautiful poetry, in the game of love, the way we smell matters just as much–if not more–as the way we look.

　　Now, this might sound bizarre, but actually, it makes sense. How a perso

n smells is a good indication of the individual’s general health and, amazingly enough, genetic makeup. Consider this: If two people who have very similar genes have children, the children are more likely to inherit a wide range of genetic weaknesses. Thus, Mother Nature favors those whose parents bring a little diversity to the mix.

　　In an experiment in Switzerland, doctors had women smell unwashed T-shirts worn by different men. It turns out that the women preferred the smell of men whose immune systems were different from their own. Further experiments showed women also preferred men who smell like their fathers. The researchers concluded that this is a way for women to find a mate genetically similar, but not close enough to cause problems.

　　We can’t forget, though, that sight is also important in choosing a mate. Have you ever noticed that couples tend to look alike? That’s no coincidence. Current research suggests that we are drawn to people who look like members of our own families. One theory explains that it might be less stressful to marry someone who looks like yourself.

　　So, the next time your sweetheart leans over, take a whiff, and says something like“Gee, you smell good,”or“You look great,”be aware that more is being said than the spoken words.