Your Sex Drive: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to understanding your sex drive, the first step is to be informed. Taking the time to become aware of both the internal and external drivers and inhibitors of libido on an individual basis will make it possible to prepare for and cope with any changes that may arise over time. Whether your aim is to rekindle the flame in the bedroom, or simply to gain a better understanding of how it all works, here are a few important facts you need to know about your sex drive.

Your Diet Can Affect Your Sex Drive

You've probably heard the myths about aphrodisiac foods that are believed to boost libido. While there is some truth behind the concept, it isn’t quite that simple. Research suggests that the idea is to consume foods that promote circulation, especially those high in antioxidants, as a part of your normal diet. It just so happens that a few of the top recommended foods also have a reputation for setting the mood.

Salmon

This healthy meal option can make for quite a romantic meal, especially when combined with other highly-recommended spices and herbs such as ginger, cayenne or garlic.

Strawberries and Other Fruits

Strawberries are a great addition to any meal. Not only are they a healthy alternative to candy and other sweets, they have long been a go-to treat to help dial up the romance. A few other fruits that promote circulation are grapes, oranges and blueberries.

Dark Chocolate

Dark Chocolate is also a great and tasty treat that happens to promote circulation. Incorporating it into your date night may be a good way to get sparks flying.

Lifestyle Choices Can Affect Your Sex Drive

When trying to regain or maintain your sex drive it is important to realize that certain lifestyle choices can have a negative impact on overall health, as well as a diminishing effect on libido.

Smoking

Smoking is always discouraged, and not only when it comes to maintaining your sex drive. Not only is the habit hygienically unpleasant, it may also cause other health-related issues that decrease libido.

Alcohol

When it comes to alcohol, it's alright to partake from time to time, but it is recommended that consumption be kept to a bare minimum.

Exercise

Moderate exercise is highly recommended for maintaining and increasing your sex drive. Inactivity can stall your libido, in addition to leading to more serious complications like obesity. Maintaining healthy exercise habits, especially those incorporating cardio, work in combination with a heart-healthy diet to help promote blood circulation and energy.

Sleep

Many people underestimate the importance of getting a good night’s rest. Fatigue stemming from a lack of sleep may cause noticeable decreases in libido. The key is to get plenty of good, quality sleep; plan for a minimum of at least seven hours. With all the responsibilities of adult life it may be hard to accomplish at times, but with a little prioritizing and time management it is possible. Make sleep a priority, and watch your libido reap the benefits.

Stress

Stress is a well-known libido inhibitor that should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent other health-related and psychological issues. Stress can be brought on by a number of things, including occupation, family obligations, financial troubles and more. Since it isn't realistically possible to eliminate all sources of stress, the focus should be placed on stress management. Get creative and include your partner in stress-management techniques. Working together to help manage stress will benefit both partners, and may just create help create a sense of togetherness to promote a healthy libido.

Age

Because of the differences in overall development between genders, it has long been thought that males reach their sexual peaks much earlier in life than females. Supposedly, men often reach their peaks in early adulthood with the average age being about eighteen, whereas women may not experience their sexual peak until their early thirties. For both genders, many of the physiological and psychological changes that accompany aging can negatively affect your sex drive.

Although some issues pertaining to decreased libido can be self-treated if observed in a timely manner, it is always recommended that a physician be consulted to ensure that there aren't more serious underlying causes, especially when any prescription medications or dietary restrictions are involved. Being informed about the basics when it comes to your sex drive promotes both the recognition and treatment of any future or existing libido concerns, not to mention helping to keep the flames burning in the bedroom.