Male sexual health is closely linked to diet and overall lifestyle. This article explores how alcohol, energy management, testosterone production, hydration, and physical exercise influence this crucial aspect of health.
The Impact of Alcohol on Sexual Health
While an occasional glass of wine can be relaxing, excessive alcohol consumption negatively affects libido and sexual performance. Alcohol can impede blood circulation, essential for adequate sexual function, and increase the risk of disinhibition. Effects of alcohol on sexual health include premature ejaculation, decreased sexual desire and arousal, erectile dysfunction, pain, and other complications (1).
Therefore, moderation is key. One way to reduce alcohol intake is to switch to non-alcoholic alternatives, such as mocktails. Here are some to inspire you:
Maintaining Energy Throughout the Day
A balanced diet is essential for maintaining optimal energy levels, positively impacting sexual health. Regular meals, rich in fiber and nutrients, help stabilize energy. Whole grains and fruits are excellent choices. The brain needs a minimum of carbohydrates to function efficiently and avoid headaches, so it's important to adopt a varied diet for optimal energy well-being.
Foods and Testosterone Production
Oysters, rich in zinc, play a key role in testosterone production (2). A testosterone deficiency can lead to decreased energy, libido, and strength. It is recommended to reduce consumption of ultra-processed foods and increase intake of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains to promote adequate testosterone production. Sleep and alcohol consumption also affect testosterone production (3). Moreover, a diet too high in proteins and low in carbohydrates can be detrimental to testosterone production (4).
The Importance of Hydration for Blood Circulation
Besides a balanced diet, adequate hydration is crucial in male sexual health. Proper hydration affects blood circulation. Water helps maintain sufficient blood volume, essential for good circulation.
The Positive Influences of Physical Exercise
Moreover, regular physical exercise helps improve blood circulation, strengthens the heart, and increases endurance, all beneficial for a healthy sex life (5). Activities such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or even moderate resistance exercises can positively influence your energy level. Additionally, it impacts sexual health by reducing stress and improving mood through endorphin release (6).
The Complexity of a Holistic Approach
In conclusion, male sexual health is a complex, multifactorial aspect of overall health. A holistic approach, including a balanced diet, moderate alcohol consumption, regular physical activity, and adequate hydration, can significantly contribute to improving sexual health.
For personalized advice and a diet tailored to your specific needs, do not hesitate to consult a dietitian nutritionist. Your sexual well-being deserves special attention, and every small effort can lead to significant positive changes in your life.
Sources
- Mandal, S., Godi, S. M., & Spoorthy, M. (2021). Sexual Dysfunction and Satisfaction in Males With Alcohol Dependence: A Clinic-Based Study From Central India. Cureus, 13(8), e17492. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.17492
- Te, L., Liu, J., Ma, J., and Wang, S. (2023). Correlation between Serum Zinc and Testosterone: A Systematic Review. Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology: Organ of the Society for Minerals and Trace Elements (GMS), 76, 127124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.127124
- Testosterone Deficiency | Men's Health Foundation. (n.d.). https://fondationsantedeshommes.ca/les-problemes-de-sante-des-hommes/la…
- Whittaker, J., and Harris, M. (2022). Low-Carbohydrate Diets and Men’s Cortisol and Testosterone: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrition and Health, 28(4), 543‑554. https://doi.org/10.1177/02601060221083079
- White, J. R., Case, D. A., McWhirter, D., and Mattison, A. M. (1990). Enhanced Sexual Behavior in Exercising Men. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 19(3), 193‑209. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01541546
- @NatGeoFrance. (2023, August 15). How to Live Happily with Our Hormones? National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.fr/sciences/2023/08/comment-vivre-heureu…
