There are many things that can lower your libido, with most couples putting it down to stress, relationship troubles or perhaps even prescription medication. But have you ever taken into account what food you're tucking into, and how that could affect your sex drive?
New research has pointed towards fast food, processed options and nonorganic produce as the reason why libidos could be low. Most of the time they contain phthalates, chemicals which, unfortunately, are known to send women's sex drives down the drain.
The study was presented during the annual meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. A total of 360 pregnant women in their 20s and 30s were questioned about their sex lives in the months leading up to when they conceived. Urine samples were also taken to measure the levels of phthalates. Results showed women who had the highest measurements were two-and-a-half times more likely to admit to feeling less urges.
As well as being found in the foods listed above, these chemicals are also in tons of other everyday items such as steering wheels, shower curtains and almost all flexible and soft plastic pieces. They weren't taken into account during the experiment, but Emily Barrett, Ph.D., lead study author and an assistant professor at University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, noted that they may also affect your libido.
“We know that phthalates are endocrine disruptors that affect hormone levels in men,” Emily explained. “But this study demonstrates that phthalates also impact hormones in women, specifically the estrogen and testosterone (yep, women have some of this too) that power libido.”
This isn't to say you should cut out some not-so-healthy treats entirely. If you want to be safe and worry about the amount of fast food/nonorganic produce you eat, simply lower your intake and try to incorporate more fresh, organic foods into your diet.
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