I have noticed over the years that problems with libido, like many other dysfunctions in the body, are on the rise. In the late 1970’s to the 2000’s, it seemed that the only ones low libido seemed to be affecting were women. Now, it seems that men are close to equal in that department.
There are many reasons why a person may feel less amorous, some of which are not directly their fault. Often times it is blamed on personality. Sure, it is more common amongst those with poor self-esteem, anxiety or depression, but there are many other factors, besides psychologically, that influence sexual desire.
General health, physical health, stress, lifestyle, nutrition, relationships, etc. can play significant roles.
Lifestyle: Stress is a big factor. It can contribute to hormonal imbalances, fatigue, lack of self-confidence, diminished circulation, disrupted sleep, distraction, and emotional imbalance, especially with their partner. Exercise can improve libido as long as it isn’t over-done. Balancing stress and exercise are helpful in improving sexual outcomes.
Sleep: Energy and vitality, hormonal balance, stress response, cognitive function, moods, self- confidence and the ability to recover and restore yourself are all improved with decent sleep. Getting a good, healthy, 7-9 hours of sleep at night can really help fuel your passions.
Nutrition: Rarely does nutrition not affect any health challenge, and libido is no exception. Healthy fats such as olive oil, butter, coconut oil and lard (yes, lard!) are fats that are important in the manufacture and utilization of hormones in the body – sex hormones and the hormones and neurotransmitters responsible for arousal and pleasure. Certain nutrients such as vitamin E, B vitamins (particularly B6), zinc, selenium, magnesium, iron, and calcium are essential to proper function. A diet of good, whole, organic fruits, vegetables, quality meats, and complex carbohydrates are essential to get all of your needed nutrients. Variety is important. Getting away from processed, junk foods alone can be helpful.
Poor fats, alcohol, cigarette smoking, caffeine and excess sugar can impact libido. Alcohol, caffeine and excess sugar can initially appear to help arousal, but the effects are short-lived and they crash, causing the opposite effect. In addition, many medications have a side effect of diminishing sexual interest and function. If this is the case for a medication you are taking, please don’t stop the medication. Talk to your physician and get professional help. Find someone to help you resolve the health issue necessitating the medication in the first place.
Acupuncture can be helpful for many, many health challenges, many of which may be contributing to sexual frustrations. Acupuncture can help reduce anxiety and your stress response emotionally, and its impact on your body. Acupuncture can improve blood flow which can make a difference in especially males. Sleep, pain and inflammation, balancing hormones, even helping with digestion so you can get the needed nutrition to help, are all health challenges that typically have a good response with acupuncture, that when improved, positively impacts sexual function and desire.
Healthy sexual function is important for emotional wellbeing. There is help, naturally.
Want to hear more from Dr. Carling? Check out our podcast. Search for VitalHealth4You on your favorite podcast listening app or go to vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/
©2023 Holly A. Carling, O.M.D., L.Ac., Ph.D.
