How does eating too much salt affect your sex life?

Ever wondered if there is a link between what’s on your plate and what goes on between the sheets? Case in point – your salt intake. As it turns out, there is an unexpected connection between your salt shaker and your sex life. Eating too much salt can ruin your sex life. So, reducing salt intake in your diet might just be the secret ingredient to turn up the heat in the bedroom. It is worth knowing how eating too much salt can ruin your sex life

Health Shots got in touch with obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Astha Dayal to know how eating excessive salt can affect your sex life.

How does consuming too much salt can ruin your sex life?

If you have a habit of adding an extra pinch of salt to your dishes, you might want to stop for the sake of your sexual well-being. Turns out, it is not so good for your sexual health. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that eating too much salt can impair erectile function. Other studies have also found a link between high salt intake and sexual dysfunction.

Here are some other reasons why eating too much salt might affect your sexual performance:

1. High blood pressure

Hypertension or high blood pressure is caused when the pressure in your blood vessels is too high. Excessive salt intake has been linked to high blood pressure, which in turn can reduce the blood flow to various organs, including those involved in sexual function. A study published in Vascular Health and Risk Management found that hypertension can cause erection problems in men and vaginal dryness and a decrease in sexual desire in women.

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2. Arterial stiffness

Arterial stiffness happens when it becomes difficult for the blood vessels to expand or contract as needed. Flexible blood vessels are required for optimal blood flow, essential for sexual arousal and performance. A study published in The Journal of Clinical Hypertension has found a link between high salt intake and how it directly or indirectly increases the risk of arterial stiffness, which can affect your sex life.

3. Endothelial dysfunction

Healthy endothelial function is crucial for the release of nitric oxide, a substance that helps blood vessels relax and improves blood flow. Eating excessive salt can impair the function of endothelial cells, leading to endothelial dysfunction, found a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Another study published in Edothelium and Cardiovascular Diseases also found how endothelial dysfunction can affect your sexual health.

How to have a healthy sex life?

Consuming too much salt is not the only thing you might be doing wrong, here are some things you need to take care of if you want to lead a healthy sex life:

1. Communication

A healthy sexual life is possible when you talk to your partner openly and discuss any concerns or issues that may be affecting your sex life.

Also Read: 10 ways to ace the art of communication in a relationship

2. Healthy lifestyle

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and sex life. You should also exercise regularly to keep your overall well-being in check. Plus, a healthy lifestyle will also boost energy levels and improve mood.

3. Say goodbye to stress

Stress not only kills the mood but it may even ruin your sex life. So, try to reduce stress by practising techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. High-stress levels can impact libido and sexual performance.

4. Sleep properly

You must get a good night’s sleep as fatigue can affect both the physical and emotional aspects of your sex life.

5. Experiment

Don’t be afraid to try new things in the bedroom. Explore your fantasies and find new ways to pleasure each other. This will add some spice to your sex life.

6. Maintain a positive body image

Do not dwell on insecurities, focus on what you love about each other and foster a positive body image for yourself and your partner.

7. Address underlying health issues

Hormonal imbalances and certain chronic conditions can affect your sex life. Make sure you consult a doctor for medical advise to fix the underlying health condition, if any.

8. Avoid smoking and alcohol

Drinking too much alcohol and smoking regularly can both affect your sex life. It is better to avoid both if you want to enjoy a healthy sex life.