All articles tagged with #libido
A New York Post article highlights four popular supplements—melatonin, saw palmetto, St. John’s wort, and licorice root—that may inadvertently lower libido by interfering with hormonal balance. While these products are often used for sleep, hair loss, mood, or digestive issues, their mechanisms can suppress reproductive hormones or mimic side effects of antidepressants, potentially reducing sexual desire and performance.
A mixed-method online survey of 1,317 adults found that 57.1% reported worrying about their libido, with concerns most often about a libido that’s too low or not matching a partner’s desire, and these worries were linked to mental health, stress, and relationship dynamics. The study also found gender and relationship-status differences, but cautioned the sample isn’t representative of all adults; authors urge broader, validated measures to better capture variation in sexual desire.
GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, used for obesity and type 2 diabetes, may impact sexual function by altering brain reward pathways and serotonin signaling, potentially affecting desire, arousal, and pelvic-floor function. While some users report reduced appetite and increased energy or confidence that can improve sex life, others experience lowered libido. Research is still limited, but experts suggest effects vary by individual and may be temporary; adjustments to dosage, lifestyle, and open conversations with a clinician can help manage changes and support sexual well-being.
A Times nutrition expert links libido to overall health and recommends a Mediterranean-style diet rich in omega-3s, plant proteins, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil to improve hormones and blood flow; it also advises limiting refined carbs and red meat, highlights zinc and B vitamins, and notes midlife and menopausal considerations for women while stressing that consistency matters more than any single meal.
A UK-based doctor warns that commonly used pre-workout supplements—rich in caffeine and stimulants—can be linked to erectile dysfunction and reduced libido, likely due to a fight-or-flight response, narrowed blood vessels, and disrupted sleep; researchers also note sleep quality and testosterone levels can be affected, so reducing stimulants, prioritising sleep, and consulting a GP if symptoms persist.
The FDA has approved the use of Addyi, a libido-boosting pill, for women over 65 who are postmenopausal, expanding its previous use for premenopausal women, despite concerns over side effects and effectiveness.
The FDA has approved the use of Addyi, a libido-boosting pill, for women over 65 who have gone through menopause, expanding its previous approval for premenopausal women, despite concerns about side effects and the controversial nature of diagnosing low sexual desire as a medical condition.
Women are increasingly using low-dose testosterone to improve energy, mood, and libido, challenging traditional gender norms and medical practices, and sparking a hormonal revolution that emphasizes self-empowerment and biohacking, though medical caution remains due to potential side effects and limited long-term research.
Testosterone use among middle-aged women has increased significantly for boosting libido and energy, often exceeding recommended doses, which can lead to positive effects like improved sex drive and muscle tone but also potential side effects such as hair loss. Experts emphasize cautious use and highlight the strong opinions surrounding hormone therapy.
The article discusses common sexual issues faced by people in their 50s, such as negative beliefs about aging and sexuality, vaginal dryness, erectile challenges, and decreased libido, emphasizing that these are normal changes and offering advice on how to address them, including mindset shifts, using lubricants, and stress reduction techniques.
A woman in her 40s struggles with her partner's declining libido due to stress, health issues, and past trauma, and seeks advice on managing her feelings of rejection and maintaining intimacy. The advice emphasizes patience, understanding, and exploring non-sexual forms of connection, as well as considering therapy and self-care to navigate the complex emotional landscape.
Ozempic, a medication used for type 2 diabetes and weight loss, has been linked to unexpected side effects related to sexual desire, with users reporting both decreases and increases in libido. Experts suggest these effects may be due to the drug's action on brain areas associated with pleasure and sexual interest. Novo Nordisk emphasizes patient safety and encourages reporting adverse reactions.
A study in Cell Metabolism found that intermittent fasting enhances sexual behavior in aging male mice by lowering brain serotonin levels through altered tryptophan metabolism, leading to increased reproductive success despite unchanged sperm and hormone levels.
Menopause expert Jodie Johnson recommends three supplements to help boost libido in menopausal women: a prebiotic/probiotic blend for hormone regulation and gut health, a cortisol-targeting blend with adaptogens like ashwagandha to reduce stress, and 'Ignite,' a mix of herbs and phytonutrients to support hormone balance and energy levels. These natural supplements aim to address hormonal changes that affect sexual desire without using hormone replacement therapies.
A woman is concerned about her boyfriend's lack of interest in sex, despite catching him looking at erotic imagery. The columnist suggests that his behavior could be related to depression, anxiety, or issues with cohabitation. He advises the woman to have a calm, compassionate conversation with her boyfriend to understand his perspective and consider seeking couples counseling if communication proves difficult.