Sex Talk. Oh yes, it’s that time of year again. The colorful sea of pink and red surrounds us. Everywhere you go you are reminded that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. On no other day are there more people thinking about the love shared with a partner. So, I think it’s very important that we take the time to talk about love and sex, as they are incredibly important components of a healthy lifestyle. When it comes to talking sex, a lot of people find the topic taboo. But it totally shouldn’t be. Sex is a giant piece of the wellness pie. Many cultures that are idolized for their longevity believe that an awareness towards remaining sexually active is a major contributor to their vitality well into their 90’s! When we start to age, a lot of people feel as though their sex life could be better. Whether that means more frequent intimacy or simply having more oomph! The reasons contributing to dissatisfaction in the sheets could be due to a broad spectrum of reasons - physical, social, psychological or biochemical to name a few.
To help improve your sex life many different elements are important. Proper nutrition is of the utmost importance as well as frequent exercise. Any lifestyle that encourages normal weight, good circulation, and a proper diet (good quality fresh foods) will support better sexual function. Stress management is also crucial, as stress can affect one’s libido and the resulting fatigue can play a number on overall sex drive as well. When it comes to deciding whether taking a little extra something might better your sex life, continue on below to determine what natural aid fits your desires best.
For some, the red roses, heart-shaped chocolates, and little lacy numbers are totally enough to get the drive in action, but if you’re looking for a libido boost, maca may just be the answer. Maca is a plant cultivated in Peru that works in the body as an adaptogen. An adaptogen is a substance that supports endocrine and immune functions while helping the body manage the effects of chronic stress. There are many different types and forms of maca. Ecoideas carries a full line of bulk powdered maca products, but specifically their red maca is known to also be protective for the prostate; their yellow maca is known for its beneficial effects on female fertility and menopausal symptoms. Brad King’s Maca Energy packs a serious liquid punch, and if you prefer a capsule or delicious chocolate bar, Vega’s got your maca bases covered. Ginseng is also a well-known herb for stimulating the central nervous system facilitating hormone secretion and increased sexual behavior. Enerex makes a male Satisfaction formulation that contains maca and ginseng as well as range of other great ingredients for sexual vitality. In reference to increasing the female libido, Vitex (also known as chaste berry), is said to help increase sexual desire by increasing the hormone progesterone.
If you feel as though your energy and stamina need a bit of a boost, then supplementing with Cordyceps (a type of mushroom) may be of benefit for you. Host Defense Organic Cordyceps may help with your endurance by supporting increased oxygen uptake as well as healthy sexual functioning. These mushrooms aren’t the magical kind but for some they’re pretty darn close!
On a biochemical level, both Zinc and Tribulus Terrestris help to improve sexual vitality as well. They are both influential on the production of the hormone testosterone. Natural Factors makes a variety of zinc mineral supplements and Platinum has a Vigor-MAX formulation containing Tribulus among other quality ingredients. As mentioned, good circulation is crucial for sexual function. During sexual activity, adequate circulation ensures that a desirable amount of blood flows to the sex organs. Maca and Ginseng are also great for increasing circulation along with Horny Goat Weed, Tribulus Terrestris, and the Amino Acid Arginine. Horny Goat Weed, Tribulus Terrestis and Arginine all work by increasing nitric oxide levels, which relax smooth muscle and allow for increased blood flow. A couple more great formulations (each containing ingredients to promote circulation and overall sexual function) are Brad King Ultimate Libido, Lorna VanderHaeghe SEXsmart or last but definitely not least; Enerex Sensational for Women.
Please remember to practice safe sexual supplementation and do check with your Pharmacist prior to taking any additional supplements, especially if you are currently taking any heart medication. If you have any further questions as to what supplement fits best to you, feel free to contact me personally.
Dana Johnston RHN, BSc.HK dana@vitasave.ca