According to recent studies up to 30% of overweight people seeking help controlling their weight indicate problems with sex drive, desire, performance, or all three. Experts say that one of the biggest obstacles to enjoying sex is a poor body image. How you feel about your body is a major part of how you feel about sex.

But unfortunately a healthy body image is not all you need to get it on. Turns out there are other ways your libido may be affected by your weight:

• Excess body weight can make your hormones out of whack. For both men and women, higher levels of body fat means higher levels of a chemical called “Sex Hormone Binding Globulin” or SHBG. It literally binds to the sex hormone testosterone. And when there’s too much testosterone bound to SHBG, there’s not enough available to stimulate desire.
• Extra weight causes decreased blood flow to the genitals, which is crucial in order to reach an orgasm.
• Too much weight limits sex positions. Sex is a physical pursuit, so the more agile you are, the more likely you’ll be able to pursue its pleasures.

For many of us sex is an important part of our lives and when sexual function is impaired, relationships can be affected. The good news is that you don’t have to be at your ideal weight to enjoy great sex. Doctors agree that very often when patients start to take care of themselves, they also report a substantial increase in their interest in sex.

Being overweight or obese increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer. And, on top of that, could dramatically affect your sex life. Losing a few kilo’s will almost immediately boost your love life. You can make a few changes to your body (and how you think about your body) to enhance your libido. So, focus on a diet rich in proteins, whole foods, and load up on fruits and veggies. Limit sugar, added fat, processed foods, and refined carbs. Also, drink lots of water and exercise regularly.

It might be a good idea to supplement your sexy with a little light erotic reading. There’s nothing sexy about housework, PTA meetings, or grocery shopping. And if that’s taking up all your thoughts, there’s no room to think about sex, no matter what your size.

When you start to reclaim your health by losing weight, wonder of wonders, the pot boils, the steam rises, the room spins … you get the idea! And best of all, it doesn’t take a lot to stoke the fires. Losing just 13% of body weight can change your self-image from unattractive to woohoo.

So, bring sexy back. You’ve got nothing to lose by getting healthier and enjoying more romance – except about 85 calories for every 30 minutes roll in the hay!

Source: Source: webmd.com, timesofindia.indiatimes.com, eatthis.com, thehealthsite.com, sharecare.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.