Diet May Directly Impact Sexual Health, Experts Say
New York, NY - Emerging research suggests a strong connection between dietary choices and sexual health, with specific nutrients playing a key role in hormone production, vascular function, and even stress reduction – all vital components of libido and sexual wellness. While more research is needed, experts are increasingly highlighting the potential of incorporating certain foods into a diet to support a healthy sex life.
Several nutrients have been identified as especially impactful. Fish are excellent sources of omega-3s, which may help improve vascular function, lower inflammation, and support testosterone synthesis, according to Houman.A study involving 8,686 men ages 18 and older linked specific omega-3s, notably docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), with higher testosterone levels. The study revealed varying effects based on body mass index (BMI): men with bmis under 25 showed a positive association between omega-3s and testosterone,while those with BMIs 30 and above (defined as obesity) exhibited the strongest associations with DPA and other omega-3s. Men with mid-range BMIs showed largely insignificant results. DPA can be found in salmon, sardines, cod liver, and herring.
“Vitamin D in fatty fish also helps regulate hormonal balance,” Houman adds. Vitamin D may also support female fertility, though further research is required to fully understand this relationship.
Beyond fish, nuts and seeds offer a potent combination of zinc, healthy fats, and magnesium. Such as, one ounce of roasted pumpkin seeds contains 2.2 mg of zinc (20 percent of the daily value) and 156 mg of magnesium (37 percent of the daily value).these nutrients are crucial for sex hormone production, with magnesium also contributing to relaxation and stress reduction, according to Choe.
Though, research specifically focused on the impact of nuts and seeds on libido, self-reliant of industry funding, remains limited. More studies are needed to definitively determine how these foods affect sexual arousal and overall sexual wellness.
