Does Diet Affect Men’s Libido?

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Does Diet Affect Men’s Libido?

A lack of libido in men can cause anxiety, confusion and embarrassment. Understandably, it is a major concern amongst the male population, and partners alike, who are worried about their sex life.

There is no numeric measurement for libido. Instead, the sex drive is understood in relevant terms, i.e. a decreased interest or desire to have sex. Whilst many studies indicate that stress and depression can be the root cause of many sexual problems. More often than not, the reasons behind a lack of sex drive are physiological rather than psychological.

In the past, there has been a distinct lack of information available to men going through these issues. With recent studies and continuous research, there is a growing abundance of dietary information providing a strong correlation between the male sex drive and the fuel that is put into the body. Though exercise and mental fortitude are strong factors in improving sex drive. It is becoming even more prevalent that diet may weigh in on libido the most.

Whilst fashionable diets change almost daily, there is no arguing that healthy food choices directly correlate to a positive impact on health. Study after study has shown how a poor diet can have negative long-term effects on the body.  So, it’s highly possible there’s a case for diet affecting libido.

Foods that may help increase libido

Some foods aid in hormone production. Omega-3 fatty acids and ‘good’ fats found in fish, avocados, olives, nuts and liquid vegetable oils contribute to the production of testosterone. Whole grains have been known to increase this hormone.

superfood bowl for breakfast

image source by Pexels

 

Fruit and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants, in particular berries, nuts like walnuts and pecans, and kidney beans. All appear in the top ten highest rated antioxidant levels for food. These have huge benefits on the heart and arteries, therefore increasing blood flow to the genitals. Fruits such as strawberries are not only full of antioxidants but are rich in vitamin C. Which has also been linked to higher sperm count in men.

Superfruits such as sweet potatoes and avocados are rich in vitamin E and have antioxidant properties. Alongside potassium and vitamin B6, which can also promote better blood flow. Not only this, but they can delay or even prevent heart disease, and statistics show that men with heart disease are twice as likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction due to severe artery damage.

Foods that increase the mood stabilizer ‘serotonin’ and the neurotransmitting ‘dopamine’ levels have been linked to an increased sex drive. These include chicken, eggs, salmon, tofu, nuts and seeds, dark chocolate and other complex carbohydrates such as beans, carrots and apples.

Foods that may decrease libido

Meat can often provide good levels of protein and zinc. However, it tends to be high in saturated fat and cholesterol, both of which can decrease blood circulation and have a negative effect on sexual function, including carrying strong links to erectile dysfunction. Other foods high in saturated fat such as cheese, milk and other animal-based food sources should be eaten in moderation.

Alcohol can have one of the most detrimental effects on a libido. Whilst alcohol is often known as the ‘social lubrication’, in reality, too much alcohol can dampen sexual desire and can ultimately decrease arousal and sensitivity.

Nutrition for male libido is an important factor to take into consideration, but diet also bears far-reaching health benefits. It is also important to note that obese people are 25 times more likely to report dissatisfaction with their sex life. This can be in connection to a poor self-image and low self-esteem, along with decreased testosterone levels. All factors that relate to low libido in males.

Whilst diet clearly has a huge impact on men’s health and sex drive. It is also advised that men take care of their mental health, along with sufficient sleep, a good exercise regime and other serotonin increasing activities such as having hobbies and socialising.

Nuts such as almonds and pine nuts are filled with zinc, selenium and vitamin E.  Minerals and vitamins which are very important to sexual health. Selenium can help with the recovery of cells from the damage caused by smoking, and also cancer prevention.  In another study, men reported an increased sex drive, after only one week of eating three to four brazil nuts a day, due to an increased level of testosterone.

Spicy foods may increase your sex drive because they cause the same symptoms as arousal, such as sweating, increased heart rate and blushing cheeks. Hot peppers increase your metabolism and stimulate endorphins, and once again it gets the blood flowing.

Featured photo by Andrea Piacquadio. by Pexels
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