We live in times of no time; lifestyles and work have made most of us busier than bees. This pace of lifestyle does not come without consequences. The increasing stress can play a role in reducing sexual desire; in fact studies have observed that hormonal and social or psychological factors influence sexual desire to a great extent. If you are one of those millions who are affected by loss of libido fear not Mother Nature may have the answer to your questions.
Tribulus Terrestris- Libido boosting plant?
Tribulus Terrestris is one of the emerging plants in the limelight for its potential libido boosting properties thanks to the naturally high Saponins content. According to studies,Tribulus Terrestris has been associated with an increase testosterone levels in response to supplementation, when used at specific concentrations. Although the exact mechanism is not fully understood, it is theorised that Tribulus affects testosterone levels by increasing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). It is also thought Tribulus has blood glucose lowering properties which may indirectly affect testosterone levels. Although further research is needed to strengthen the literature, many anecdotal reports conclude this herb can be effective in enhancing energy levels and increasing libido in males and females.
ZMA- Supporting testosterone function
ZMA is a highly bio-available combination of the minerals; Zinc, Magnesium and Vitamin B6. Zinc is an extremely important mineral that is essential for almost all bodily functions including the immune system, metabolism of fatty acids, protecting cells from oxidative damage, macronutrient metabolism, protein synthesis, assisting normal testosterone levels in the blood and much more. It is the role in testosterone production, fertility and prostate health which makes it particularly beneficial for men in relation to promoting normal function of the sexual organs.
Magnesium is the mineral responsible for relaxing your nervous system, combating the stress caused by everyday life. It can also help promote better quality of sleep for the same reason thereby addressing loss of libido due to sleep or stress related issues.
Vitamin B6 is also involved in many functions in the body from energy-yielding metabolism, fighting tiredness and fatigue to regulation of hormonal activity. At each to these can affect libido significantly, ZMA can help address each function.
Overall ZMA can contribute to testosterone production and prostate health maintains function of the sexual organs. However, ZMA can also be beneficial for recovery and muscle growth.
Aphrodisiac Foods
Dark coloured berries such as blackberries, blueberries and strawberries, can help to increase libido according to research. Anecdotally, berries have also been associated with aphrodisiac properties for centuries, for example the Amazonian Acai Berry is notorious for increasing libido. Berries are rich in antioxidants (including flavonoids), and known to be packed with vitamins and minerals to increase energy levels and alertness. Antioxidants can also be found in cocoa, red wine, green and black tea, fruits and vegetables.
L-Arginine and L-Carnitine
L-Arginine and L-Carnitine are amino acids both important for sperm production and function. It is also thought these amino acids may play a role in increasing blood flow to the genital areas. If concentrations of both amino acids are low, this can cause fertility problems in men, leading to stress low confidence and loss of libido. For this reason many supplements designed for erectile dysfunction/male sexual health will incorporate L-Arginine and L-Carnitine into their formulas.
Overall, a healthy balanced diet rich in antioxidants will to promote your sexual health. For those who find it difficult to meet their RDAs via the diet supplementation can help to fill your nutritional ‘gaps.’
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