Feeling stuck in a sexual slump? You’re not alone. Low libido is a common problem among men and women, with a multitude of potential causes – including age, stress, anxiety, depression, prescription medications, exercise (too little or too much), alcohol, and even something as simple as a lack of light. That’s right, just like Seasonal Affective Disorder or low vitamin D levels, a lagging libido can occur due to a change in seasons, an unhealthy indoor lifestyle, or not getting enough natural light.
It’s All About the Hormones
Our body clocks are affected by light patterns. These clocks, in turn, regulate many of our bodily processes, including the release of hormones, which directly impact our sex drives. The good news is there might be an uncomplicated solution for reigniting your libido that doesn’t involve a prescription. Researchers from the University of Siena in Italy recently discovered that exposure to light can have a significant effect on driving a lackluster libido.
The study included 38 men with hypoactive sexual desire disorder or sexual arousal disorder – both of which contribute to a lack of interest in sex. The men were divided into two groups. One group received regular treatment with a specially adapted light box, and the other group received treatment from a lightbox emitting significantly less light. Both groups underwent treatment for 30 minutes each morning.
After two weeks, researchers tested the participants’ testosterone levels and self-reported sexual satisfaction levels, comparing these measurements to the baseline measures taken before the study began. The result? The men exposed to the specially adapted lightbox experienced significant improvements in testosterone levels and sexual satisfaction. In fact, their sexual satisfaction levels increased three-fold from just 30 minutes of morning light each day. As for the control group, they saw no improvements.
Bring on the Sunshine
With that in mind, increased exposure to sunshine could be the key to unlocking a sluggish sex drive. If you find yourself spending most of your time indoors, you may also want to supplement your exposure to natural light with a full-spectrum light bulb or lightbox, just as they did in the study. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of bright light every morning.
If you truly want to quickly tackle your low libido, you may also want to try incorporating some natural dietary libido boosters into your daily eating habits. Foods proven to increase libido include:
- Dark chocolate
- Oatmeal
- Eggs
- Oysters
- Grass-fed steak
- Avocado
- Figs
- Almonds
- Walnuts
A Bright Future for Your Libido
In conclusion, the road to restoring your libido might be as simple as soaking up some sunshine and eating the right foods. With the right exposure to light and a libido-boosting diet, you just might find your way out of that sexual slump in no time.
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