Study Suggests Popular Diet Could Enhance Sexual Health and Performance
Intermittent Fasting May Boost Sex Drive, Study Suggests — Especially in Older Men
Hollywood stars like Jennifer Aniston, Chris Pratt, and Kourtney Kardashian have long praised intermittent fasting (IF) for its weight management benefits. Now, new research suggests the diet might also enhance libido, particularly in older men. Scientists from Germany and China found that fasting impacts serotonin levels in the brain, a hormone linked to mood and behavior. Their mouse study revealed heightened sexual activity in males after prolonged fasting, though experts caution more research is needed.
Serotonin’s Surprising Role
The study, published in Cell Metabolism, showed that fasting reduced serotonin levels in mice. Lower serotonin correlated with increased mating behavior, especially in older mice that followed the diet for at least six weeks. These mice had more offspring than unrestricted eaters, suggesting the diet could counteract age-related declines in vitality.
Dr. Dan Ehninger, lead researcher at the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, noted, “The fasting males had significantly more sexual contacts than mice that could eat freely. Their mating behavior compensated for age-related limitations.”
How Fasting Affects Libido
When the body lacks tryptophan — a serotonin-building amino acid obtained through diet — serotonin production drops. In fasting mice, this reduction appeared to lower inhibitions, leading to heightened sexual activity. Younger mice on a six-month fasting regimen also showed increased libido, but short-term fasting (a few weeks) had no effect.
Professor Yu Zhou of Qingdao University emphasized patience: “For intermittent fasting to increase sex drive, it takes time — likely between six weeks and six months.”
Celebrity Trend vs. Scientific Debate
Intermittent fasting surged in popularity in the 2010s, endorsed by celebrities for weight loss and energy. However, experts remain divided. Critics argue that fasting doesn’t guarantee calorie reduction and may pose risks like heart issues. A recent 20-year study even linked 16-hour daily fasting to a 91% higher risk of cardiovascular death.
A Global “Sex Crisis”?
The research coincides with growing concerns about declining sexual activity. Surveys indicate 27% of Britons have less sex than before, and 15% went without it entirely in the past year. Regular intimacy is tied to health benefits like reduced stress and improved heart health, making the study’s findings especially intriguing.
Dr. Ehninger speculates the serotonin effect could apply to humans: “Sexual desire might be influenced by fasting — possibly in both men and women.”
The Takeaway
While the study highlights a potential perk of intermittent fasting, experts stress that serotonin’s role requires deeper exploration. For now, consult a healthcare provider before adopting any restrictive diet.
Caption: Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston have popularized intermittent fasting.
Caption: Serotonin levels may explain fasting’s effects on behavior.
(Word count: 600)
