Overactive and under-active libidos are often a point of contention between partners in relationships. Many couples are reluctant to speak with doctors or therapists about differences in their sex drives, but there is a way to help the issue at home. There are certain foods that are known to decrease the libido, and are advised for those who feel that their drive is too high, and contraindicated for those who feel their drive is not high enough.
Carbohydrates and Fats
Carbohydrates and fats are heavy foods that have been proven to lead to arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Hardening of the arteries is a condition in which plaque builds up along the walls of the arteries, which decreases their elasticity, increasing blood pressure as a result, and decreasing blood flow to parts of the body. Sufficient blood flow to the genitals is a very important component of sexual desire. An excess of blood is necessary to inflame the genitals for sexual excitement and activity, so a decrease in the flow of blood would prevent the desired stimulus, sensitivity and response.
Fried Foods
While discouraged in any healthy diet, fried foods are also known for decreasing the libido. Fried foods contain trans fats, also known as hydrogenated fats. Hydrogenated fats have been found to decrease testosterone, which is vital for normal libido and sexual function. Testosterone serves many purposes in the body, one of which is to prompt sexual desire and regulate sex cell production. Not only do hydrogenated fats reduce testosterone, but they have been proven to increase the number of abnormal sperm in animals.
Alcohol
While not necessarily a food, alcohol is still one of the primary substances known to decrease libido. It is also a surprising entry on the list for many people. Despite the number of people who engage in sexual activity as a result of alcohol, that activity is more due to decreased inhibitions than increased libido. Alcohol is known to decrease sensitivity and to lower sexual response, and so can be a useful tool in decreasing libido when desired, but should be avoided if desire levels are already low.
Medications
Also not a food, but part of a person's daily intake, certain medications are also known to decrease libido. Many common drugs have the unfortunate side effect of interfering with the normal levels of sexual desire in the patient in question, due to a variety of factors. The most common culprits for this are antidepressants, blood pressure medications, diuretics and some medications that treat ulcers. While these wouldn't be used to intentionally decrease a person's libido, it is important to be aware of the effect of medication for someone that is trying to avoid substances that lower their level of desire further.
