If you were overweight but achieved some weight loss, you may have noticed an added benefit of your new body -- an increased libido. When you are overweight, poor self-image and low energy levels may decrease your sex drive. Keep in mind that besides increased libido, additional benefits can be gained from losing weight including a reduced risk of serious medical conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.
Diet
To lose weight, follow a calorie-restricted diet. Slow and steady weight loss of 1 to 2 lbs. per week helps you sustain results. Eat a well-rounded diet made up of plenty of veggies, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean proteins. Keep a food journal to monitor your calorie intake. Reducing your calories by 500 to 1,000 each day puts you on track for your weight loss goals.
Exercise
As part of your weight loss program, you should participate in daily exercise. When you exercise, you burn more calories and make your goal weight achievable quicker than with diet alone. As you get into a regular exercise routine, your libido is likely to increase. You'll feel more energetic and the endorphins released during exercise improve your mood.
Benefits
Once you achieve weight loss, your body image is likely to be improved. As you feel better about yourself, you are more likely to be in the mood for sexual activity with your partner. Improved stamina from your weight loss and exercise routine is likely to increase your sex drive. When you lose weight, improved blood flow to the sex organs may put you more in the mood for intimacy.
Considerations
You should speak to your doctor about any changes in your libido. Although your weight can affect sex drive, other medical conditions may be the cause of any libido changes. Stress, menopause, alcohol and drug abuse, infertility and heart disease may cause low sex drive. Antidepressants, blood pressure medications, hormone replacement drugs and birth control pills may affect your libido as well.
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