These common habits are decreasing your sex drive

Having a low libido might feel like a huge and solitary issue. But is doesn't have to.

According to the NHS, low libido is more common than you think, 'affecting up to one in five men – and even more women–at some point in their life.'

Whilst some people naturally have lower libidos than others, a recent and noticeable decrease in libido could indicate bad habits creeping into your routine. So if you're suffering from a low libido (and you have ruled out any possible medication interferences), we've found some possible triggers that you can work on today to get your sex drive racing again.

1. Stress

One of the top causes of low libido is mental health.Depression, anxiety, and stress are big levellers of libido, and negatively affect 25% of the population of Europe each year, according to Livi.When life gets stressful, it is all too easy to throw intimacy with your self or your partner at the bottom of the to-do list. However, keeping up with physical intimacy can actually help to alleviate stress as it releases of endorphins.

So next time you're feeling stressed be kind to yourself. Communicate how you're feeling with your partner of with your friends, and make sure to include lots of different kinds of physical intimacy in your routine (like kisses, hugs, or showering together) which will help to elevate your libido.

2. Sugar and salt

Chances are if you're stressed your body might be craving more sugar and salt than normal for some instant gratification. But, over-consuming both of these ingredients can actually have a harmful effect on your libido as they can slow down your flow of blood and affect your sexual performance.

Instead, prioritise foods which are rich in vitamins and minerals, like bananas, avocados, seeds, and dark chocolate to increase your libido as well as your sexual stamina.

3. Sleep

A lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can affect your libido in a number of ways. Firstly, sleep deprivation is highly connected to our mental state, and is known to increase feelings of anxiety and depression. Secondly, a lack of sleep can leave you feeling low on energy, and unable to muster up the desire for sexual activity. This can affect physical performance too as the Sleep Foundation discovered that insomniacs are at a greater risk of suffering from erectile disfunction.

So for a good night's sleep, try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, minimise screen usage before bed, or try some night-time meditation.

Sources used:

Health Line: '7 Foods to Help Boost Your Sex Life'

The Sleep Foundation: 'The Relationship Between Sex and Sleep'

Web MD: 'Habits That Can Hurt Your Sex Life'

Livi: 'No libido? 8 causes of a loss of sex drive — a doctor’s guide'

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