What Is a Healthy Libido in Men?
Libido, or sex drive, varies from person to person and can be influenced by age, lifestyle, hormone levels, and overall health. A healthy libido means having a consistent interest in sex that aligns with your personal well-being and relationship dynamics.
There’s no universal “normal” when it comes to libido—what’s important is that you feel satisfied with your sex drive and that it aligns with your health and relationship needs.
When Should You Be Concerned About Low Libido?
It’s natural for libido to fluctuate, but persistent changes may signal an underlying issue. You might want to seek help if you experience:
A sudden or significant drop in sex drive without a clear reason.
Difficulty maintaining arousal or erections beyond occasional stress-related issues.
Lack of interest in sex that impacts your relationships or mental health.
Other symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, weight gain, or sleep disturbances.
If these symptoms persist, it may indicate an imbalance in hormones, chronic stress, or an underlying health condition.
What Causes Changes in Male Libido?
Several factors can impact sex drive, including:
1. Hormone Levels
Testosterone plays a major role in libido. Low testosterone can lead to reduced sex drive, fatigue, and difficulty with erections. Other hormones, such as cortisol and thyroid hormones, also influence libido.
2. Stress and Mental Health
Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can lower libido by increasing cortisol levels and reducing interest in intimacy. Addressing mental health is key to maintaining a healthy sex drive.
3. Lifestyle Factors
Poor diet, lack of exercise, and insufficient sleep can all negatively affect libido.
Excessive alcohol or drug use may decrease testosterone levels and sexual performance.
Smoking can impair circulation, impacting erectile function.
4. Medications
Certain medications, including antidepressants, blood pressure drugs, and some pain medications, can cause low libido as a side effect.
5. Age and Natural Changes
Testosterone naturally declines with age, but this doesn’t mean libido should disappear entirely. Many men maintain a strong sex drive well into their later years with proper health support.
How to Improve Male Libido Naturally
As a naturopathic doctor in Kelowna, BC, I focus on evidence-based, natural approaches to improving libido, including:
Optimizing hormone levels: Testing and supporting testosterone and other hormone imbalances.
Nutrition and supplementation: Supporting libido with essential nutrients like zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, and adaptogenic herbs.
Stress management: Incorporating mindfulness, exercise, and relaxation techniques to reduce cortisol levels.
Lifestyle modifications: Prioritizing sleep, exercise, and healthy habits to support overall vitality.
If you’re experiencing changes in libido and want to address the root cause, book a consultation to explore a personalized approach.
Book Your Consultation
If you’re in Kelowna and looking for a naturopathic doctor to support men’s hormone health, I’m here to help. Contact my clinic today to book an appointment and start improving your health naturally.