Dates for sex drive: Benefits and how to eat

Sex drive, also known as libido, refers to a person’s desire for sex and activities related to it. Hormones like testosterone and estrogen play significant roles in regulating sex drive. It varies from person to person, so there is no right or wrong level of libido. While some people like to have sex every day, others may engage in a sexual act just a few times a week or month. But if low sex drive is bothering you, include dates in your diet. The sweet fruit of the date palm tree may help sweeten things in the bedroom. Read on to know if eating dates is good for your sex drive.

Causes of low sex drive in women

Low sex drive in women is more common than you think and it can stem from a variety of factors:

1. Biological factors

• Menopause: Decreased estrogen levels during menopause can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort while having sex, and that in turn reduces libido, says gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Vinatha Puli.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Hormonal fluctuations during and after pregnancy, as well as the physical and emotional demands of caring for a new baby, can lower sexual desire.
• Menstrual cycle: Hormone levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, affecting libido.

2. Medical conditions

• Thyroid disorders: Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can affect energy levels and mood, impacting your sex drive.
• Chronic illnesses: Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer can affect overall health and reduce libido.
• Chronic pain: Persistent pain from conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia can decrease interest in sex.

3. Medications

• Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other antidepressants may lower libido.
• Antihypertensives: Blood pressure medications can have side effects that reduce sexual desire.
• Contraceptives: Hormonal contraceptives can affect libido.

4. Psychological factors

• Depression: Depression can diminish interest in many activities, including sex.
• Anxiety: Anxiety disorders can cause excessive worry and stress, impacting sexual desire.
• Stress: High levels of stress from work, family responsibilities, or other sources can reduce libido.
• Self-esteem and body image: Poor self-esteem and negative body image can decrease sexual confidence and desire.

5. Social and relationship factors

• Emotional distance: Lack of emotional intimacy or unresolved conflicts can reduce sexual desire.
• Poor communication: Difficulty discussing sexual needs and preferences can lead to dissatisfaction and decreased interest.

6. Lifestyle factors

• Fatigue: Exhaustion from work, childcare, or other responsibilities can leave little energy for sex.
• Poor diet and lack of exercise: Unhealthy lifestyle choices can affect overall health and libido.

How do dates help to boost sex drive?

Compounds such as alkaloids, and flavonoids are present in dates that can increase sexual desire in men and women, according to a 2022 study published in BMC Research Notes. Here are some ways dates might help boost sex drive:

1. Boosts energy

Dates contain natural sugars like fructose, glucose, and sucrose, which provide a quick and sustained energy. 100 grams of dates consists of 66.5 grams of total sugars, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Increased energy levels can enhance overall stamina, positively affecting sex drive, says the expert.

2. Rich in vitamins and minerals

Dates have vitamin A that supports the health of mucous membranes, including vaginal tissues, which can enhance comfort during sexual activity. The fruit also has magnesium, which plays a role in hormone regulation and relaxation. This can reduce stress and enhance sexual desire, says Dr Puli. Dates also contains arginine, which can improve blood flow by relaxing blood vessels, potentially enhancing sexual function and arousal.

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3. Balances your hormones

The nutrients in dates help maintain hormonal balance, which is crucial for a healthy libido. For example, magnesium plays a role in regulating cortisol, a stress hormone that can negatively affect sex drive, shares the expert.

4. Improves your mood

Dates contain tryptophan, an amino acid that can increase serotonin production in the brain. Higher serotonin levels are associated with improved mood and reduced anxiety, which can enhance sexual desire.

How to include dates in your diet?

Incorporating dates into your diet can be easy. Here are some tips:

• Health benefits of dates are many, so eat them as a quick snack.
• Add dates to smoothies for natural sweetness and nutrition instead of using sugar.
• Use dates as a sweetener in baking recipes like cakes and cookies.
• Stuff dates with nuts, or peanut butter for a nutritious treat.

Also Read: 8 reason why you should include dates in your diet

What are the side effects of dates?

Before you consume dates, know the side effects of dates and who should avoid:

• Dates have a high natural sugar content, which can cause blood sugar levels to spike, particularly in people with diabetes.
• The natural sugars in dates can contribute to tooth decay if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
• Dates are calorie-dense, so consuming them in large quantities can lead to weight gain, especially if they are not balanced with physical activity.
• Dates are high in fiber, which is generally beneficial for digestion, but eating too many can cause gas, and bloating.

Incorporating dates into your diet may be good for sex drive, but moderation is key to avoiding potential side effects. Also, dates alone are unlikely to resolve low sex drive completely. Their nutritional benefits can support overall health and contribute to an improvement in sexual desire. So, consider them as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. If low sex drive persists, consult with a doctor to explore underlying causes and appropriate treatments.