It may come as a surprise to some and yet not others that sexual desire and good health go hand-in-hand. The loss of libido or sexual desire is an indication that there is some form of illness, physical or mental, present.
The success of sexual arousal depends on the health of the nerves and blood vessels of the sexual organs. In diabetes, excesses in blood glucose damages the vessels and nerves that send signals from sexual organs. This, unfortunately for diabetics, can lead to the inability to respond sexually. It is therefore, extremely important to work on prevention and management of diabetes through diet and lifestyle.
High fibre and the limitation of sugars is a great first step.
Just as poor blood glucose regulation can impact sexual health and performance, so too can fatty tissue that infiltrate the arteries of the sexual organs, preventing arousal. This can be prevented with supportive dietary protocols that include high fibre, low saturated fat and high omega 3 fatty acids. This will support the free flowing of circulation and reduce inflammation and fatty tissue deposits.
Quercetin
Quercetin, a dietary antioxidant found in onions and garlic has also shown promise for diabetic management. It has been instrumental in some studies for preventing converting excesses in blood glucose into the damaging glucitol. Quercetin has long been praised for its anti-histaminic actions. Anti-histamine properties further prevent damage to important blood vessels.
Chromium
Another better-known blood sugar regulating mineral is chromium. Chromium has been shown to regulate not only blood glucose, but also CRAVINGS. It is an important antioxidant and may further prevent glucose inflicted damage to blood vessel walls.
Inositol
One of my favourite vitamins, inositol has shown promising results for preventing nerve damage that often accompanies diabetes (diabetic neuropathy). Inositol has also demonstrated benefits in mental health and anxiety, conditions that can impact sexual desire, confidence and performance.
B Vitamins
B vitamins are an essential for any stress and anxiety related dietary protocol, but the addition of these important vitamins can also assist in dilation of the blood vessels, further enhancing circulation. Particularly vitamin B3 (aka Niacin). This super B works to dilate blood vessels, reduce cholesterol and enhance circulation.
Vitamin B6
B6 works in our favour for sexual performance and desire. It stimulates the production and conversion of sex hormones and reduces hormones that quash that desire. Did you know those who take the oral contraceptive pill or antidepressants are at increased risk of B6 deficiency? Alcohol is another way to quickly see your B6 levels decline.
Folic Acid
Folic acid, we all know it as the pregnancy vitamin but many who suffer from the depression of moods are showing early signs of deficiency, as folic acid supports neurotransmitter function and the production of sex hormones.
Magnesium
Magnesium is also receives well deserved praise as a vasodilator and circulatory stimulant, but its most useful benefits in impotence or lack of libido lays with its actions on the nervous system. Nervous, stressed and anxious people may find benefit in the inclusion of magnesium as part of their daily routine (inclusive of sex).
Tryptophan
Amino acid tryptophan is known to assist in the production of serotonin, our feel food hormone. More serotonin means a happier and more relaxed you, possibly resulting in the enhancement of sexual desire.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a large role in the production of male and female sexual hormones and these hormones trigger our desire for sexual activity and our performance during sexual activity.
Zinc
Zinc! Especially for men but still important in female hormone production. It supports the stimulation of sexual desire and regulates the production of those vital hormones that make us randy! But guess what? Basically everything we do depletes this essential mineral. Diet, alcohol, stress, incorrect preparation of food, preservatives and environmental pollutions.
So, I have mentioned quite a few important implicated vitamins, minerals, nutrients and antioxidants in this post. All of which could play a pivotal role in your sexual health. It seems like a lot I know! But with a healthy balanced diet, free of saturated fats, sugars and too much alcohol, it is achievable. One more thing, diet is one element, it is extremely and equally as important to look at lifestyle factors such as exercise, rest and recovery from daily stressors. Combine them all together and enjoy some happy LURRRVE making!