As a man ages, his sexual function declines, and studies have found that by the age of 50, men can lose about half of their normal testosterone levels, which means a decline in libido. However, it’s worth knowing that it is possible to fight these changes. But how can you do it?
It is what it is?
The “masculinity” that comes with birth is what it is, but “is what it is” does not apply to sexual health. It is possible for every man to keep his sexual health and ability in shape and, if he wants to, to improve it.
The most common influences on libido
- age,
- anxiety,
- stress,
- relationship complications,
- low testosterone,
- bad sleeping patterns,
- depression and worryingly even the medicine assigned to treat it,
- erectile dysfunction,
- sedentary lifestyle.
It is often not realised or believed, but in fact a healthy or adequate sex life and sex drive go hand in hand. Men with low libido experience a lack of sex drive, while men with high libido experience greater sex drive. However, at some point – for example, as you get older – there may come a time when sexual desire decreases. What can you do if your libido has declined and shows no signs of improvement?
How can you stay fit?
Medical intervention is available for libido loss and medicines can indeed make things better, and if necessary, there is nothing wrong with them. But desire, sexual satisfaction and libido can also be maintained and boosted in ‘natural’ ways.
If any of the above factors, or a combination of them (e.g. poor sleep and a sedentary lifestyle), are behind a decline in sexual health and libido, there are things you can do to improve your sexual health and performance.
1. Keep the fire going!
Libido can also drop if you’ve been in a relationship for a long time. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but if there’s a desire for change, it’s time to try to ‘relight the fire’. Date nights, quality time to yourself, intimacy, trying new things – all of these things can help keep the passion (libido) alive and well.
2. Sleep, sleep and finally sleep!
Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for maintaining and improving both general and sexual health. This applies to both male and female sexuality. And it should come as no surprise.
Poor sleep and fatigue can cause mental problems and lead to a reduced desire for sex. To ensure good sexual health, you need to get enough and good sleep. It relieves stress and provides energy and keeps libido levels up.
3. Move!
One of the most natural and effective ways to keep your bedroom and your life together ‘alive’ is to take part in healthy exercise and to keep yourself moderately physically active.
Exercise helps to keep both mind and body in good shape – for example, it boosts blood pressure, which is key to achieving an erection. Knowing you’re in shape undoubtedly improves your self-esteem too. Being in good self-esteem and self-assessment, on the other hand, boosts libido. Improving sex drive. So, instead of a sedentary lifestyle, always choose exercise!
4. Reduce or cut out nicotine and alcohol entirely!
Too much nicotine and/or alcohol is a pretty sure way to cause problems in the bedroom. Alcohol often seems to take the brakes off, but in reality, excessive consumption of strong drinks prevents both erections and orgasms..
So if you want to stay in good ‘bedroom shape’, drink in moderation and the same advice applies to smoking. Smoking affects heart health, while a healthy heart is linked to maintaining sexual function.
5. Avoid stress
It is difficult to enjoy sex when you are tense, anxious and stressed, and it is not uncommon for sex drive to disappear altogether. Worrying takes over the mind and robs you of a lot of energy, which can lead to a drop in libido.
Exercise, meditation or other mindfulness exercises can help with milder stress. It’s good to do yoga, and a walk in the fresh air or a massage certainly won’t go amiss.
Men’s doctor Kristo Ausmees has said that you should treat your (male) doctor like your friend. Even when it comes to bedroom problems (read the interview HERE). Therefore don’t be afraid to see your doctor or GP if you have a major problem. And, of course, depending on your concerns, it may also be helpful to discuss things with a psychologist or sexologist.
6. Eat healthy!
Eating healthily reduces the risk of metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome can lead to heart disease, type II diabetes and stroke, for example. All these conditions affect sexual function.
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