February: the month of love. Your libido (aka your sex drive), plays a particularly important role during February (hello Valentine’s Day), but it can also be an indicator of your overall health. 

A study showed that 42% of women and 30% of men aged 40-59, reported having lower libido than they desired. In addition to this statistic, many young adults also report having a low libido that affects their relationships with themselves and their partner. 

Low libido can be caused by:

 

  • Low testosterone 
  • Hormonal imbalances caused by oral contraceptives (the pill) 
  • Stress, depression  
  • Chronic pain
  • Medications for blood pressure, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), anxiety and depression (anti-psychotics, antidepressants, beta blockers, anti-histamines)
  • Poor blood flow related to cholesterol, diabetes,  and blood pressure
  • Hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid) 
  • Age related hormonal changes: decreased estrogen and testosterone in menopause

So, what can you do to boost your libido? 

 

Libido Boosting Foods and Superfoods 

 

  • Chocolate: Cacao is high in magnesium, a mineral essential for hundreds of processes in the body. Cacao also contains phenylethylamine (PEA) which supports serotonin (the “happy hormone”) production in the brain. 

 

  • Oysters: Oysters are one of the best sources of zinc, which is necessary for healthy reproductive function in both men and women. 

 

  • Collagen: Helps maintain elasticity of the vaginal wall, and can improve erections. 

 

  • Salmon, sardines: Fish such as salmon and sardines are a great source of healthy fats – particularly omega-3s, which reduce inflammation and produce healthy testosterone.  

 

  • Avocados, olive oil: Fats that support healthy hormone production in men and women.

 

  • Maca: Supports the adrenal glands which helps to balance sex hormone production, as well as supports testosterone production. 

 

  • Liver: High in iron, vitamin A, vitamin B6, folate – all beneficial for healthy testosterone production to boost libido. 

 

  • Spirulina, spinach, broccoli: A good source of iron and other nutrients that benefit detoxification and energy production. 

 

  • Brazil nuts: Eating 1-3 brazil nuts gives you more than your daily recommended intake of selenium, a mineral important for hormonal balance, thyroid health, and liver detoxification. 

 

  • Pumpkin seeds: High in zinc which benefits mood, digestive health, hormone balance and sperm health. 

 

Lifestyle Changes To Help Boost Your Libido

 

  • Exercise: Exercise reduces stress, improves blood circulation, and can increase levels of testosterone – a hormone that is necessary for a healthy libido in men and women. 

 

  • Reduce stress: Stress can release hormones cortisol and adrenaline which can lead to a lower libido. Creating a routine that helps to reduce stress will be helpful in improving your sexual desire both mentally and physically! 

 

  • Sleep: Sleep is important for every function of the body. Sleep helps to balance hormones, reduce blood pressure and inflammation, protects your heart, and maintains proper blood sugar regulation. All of these factors contribute to your sexual health, which means getting enough sleep is necessary to boost your libido!

 

  • Breathing techniques and pelvic floor exercises: deep belly breathing can lower heart rate, and reduce stress. Pelvic floor exercises such as kegels can increase blood flow, to improve sensation and pleasure, and strengthen the pelvic muscles. 

 

See a practitioner! 

There are also herbs and supplements available that can help to boost your sex drive, but there is no “one size fits all” approach and what worked for your friend might not work for you.

Nutritionists, naturopaths, psychotherapists, chiropractors, and massage therapists can help to balance your hormones and stress levels using a holistic approach.

Working with a professional is the best option to begin your healing process and regain your sex drive!

Verdure Wellness Clinic in Waterloo, ON offers naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, nutrition consulting, massage therapy and chiropractic care. Our team of health practitioners offer a variety of services with your best health and wellness in mind.

305-55 Erb Street E, Waterloo, Ontario   •    519.742.0691

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