Loss of sex drive is a very common complaint during menopause. The hormone imbalance commonly experienced during this transition can lead to depression, fatigue, stress, and lack of sleep, all of which factor into loss of libido. Don't worry - intimacy can be restored with the help of many delicious foods.
Chocolate
There is just something about chocolate that does the trick. That something is phenylethylamine, to which chocolate's traditional aphrodisiac activity is attributed. When eaten every day, this antioxidant-rich treat will keep you in the mood for love.
Try to find cacao powder or cacao nibs as a healthy addition to your breakfast or as a snack, and you may just find yourself back in bed.
Mango
There is nothing like a juicy, exotic fruit to keep you wanting more. Not only is its vitamin A essential for maintaining good eyesight, but the vitamin E content can also help reduce the intensity and duration of hot flashes, a key topic during perimenopause.
Try having a cup of sliced mango in cereal or a salad, or just bite right in and enjoy. A mango a day and you're ready to play.
Garlic
Garlic maybe not as seductive as the first two, but it can get your blood flowing. If you would prefer not to eat the raw garlic as such, a garlic supplement may be more suitable, or you can add it to your dishes if you want. It is a safe way to heat up your body during menopause, as it will not agitate other symptoms like spicy foods do.
Cranberry
Cranberry is a tart fruit filled with vitamin C. In high doses, vitamin C can reduce stress at psychological and physical level by reducing levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, helping you to put in the mood for sex. In many cases, low libido can be linked to high stress levels, so decreasing stress in a healthy way is always helpful. You can eat it in cereal or as a dessert.
Avocados
With a spoon, in guacamole, sliced on a sandwich, or in a salad, avocado will get you going. Thyroid deficiencies are prevalent among menopausal women, but the potassium in avocado helps regulate the thyroid glands. Studies have found that thyroid problems can reduce sex drive. Moderate to severe issues can be treated by a physician.
Dates
Have a couple of dates on your next date with your sweetie. The high iron content will keep your blood iron levels up. Also, the amino acids and natural sugars can increase stamina and enhance your mood.
Loss of sex drive can be troublesome. Not getting enough vitamins and other nutrients can play a role in this difficult symptom of menopause. Try incorporating libido-boosting foods into your diet for long-term results and better overall health. Also, read about the top natural remedies for low libido.
Sources
- Brody, S. et al. (2002). A randomized controlled trial of high dose ascorbic acid for reduction of blood pressure, cortisol, and subjective responses to psychological stress. Psychopharmacology, 159(3), 319-324. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11862365
- Ziaei, S. et al. (2007). The effect of vitamin E on hot flashes in menopausal women. Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation, 64(4), 204-207. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17664882
- Oppo, A. et al. (2011). Effects of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and thyroid autoimmunity on female sexual function. Journal of endocrinological investigation, 34(6), 449-53. doi: 10.3275/7686