Will dieting and weight loss lead to a decline in sexual function

Dieting to lose weight may lead to temporary decline in sexual function. Sexual function is mainly affected by factors such as insufficient energy intake, hormonal fluctuations, increased psychological stress, accelerated muscle loss, and micronutrient deficiencies.

1. Insufficient energy:

Long term calorie deficit can cause the body to enter energy-saving mode, and the function of the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis is inhibited. Male testosterone secretion can decrease by more than 30%, while female estrogen synthesis decreases, directly affecting sexual desire and reproductive function. Extreme dieting with daily intake below 60% of basal metabolic rate is more likely to cause such problems.

2. Hormonal disorders:

Adipose tissue is involved in sex hormone metabolism, and during rapid weight loss, leptin levels drop sharply by 50% -70%, while cortisol levels increase by 20% -40%. This hormonal environment can inhibit the release of gonadotropins, resulting in male erectile dysfunction and female menstrual disorders. Clinical data shows a significant increase in risk when BMI is below 18.5.

3. Psychological stress:

Hunger activates the sympathetic nervous system, persistent anxiety leads to increased levels of norepinephrine, and vasoconstriction reduces blood supply to the reproductive organs. About 65% of strict vegetarians report decreased libido, with 30% accompanied by sexual arousal disorders.

4. Muscle loss: When protein intake is insufficient, pelvic floor and skeletal muscle breakdown accelerates. The decrease in smooth muscle content in the male corpus cavernosum can affect erection hardness, while relaxation of the female pelvic floor muscles may lead to reduced sexual pleasure. Research shows that a 10% reduction in muscle mass can have a significant impact.

5. Nutritional deficiency:

Insufficient trace elements such as zinc and selenium can reduce sperm motility, vitamin E deficiency affects ovarian function, and insufficient intake of essential fatty acids can reduce sex hormone synthesis. Vegetarians who are trying to lose weight are more likely to experience such problems, as their serum zinc levels may decrease by 25% -40%.

It is recommended to adopt a balanced diet combined with exercise to lose weight, with a daily calorie deficit controlled at 300-500 calories, ensuring a protein intake of 1.2-1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight. Prioritize high nutrient dense foods such as deep-sea fish, nuts, and whole grains, and perform 2-3 resistance training sessions per week to maintain muscle mass. If sexual dysfunction persists for more than three months, it is necessary to seek medical attention and check hormone levels. If necessary, nutritional supplementation or medication treatment should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor. Maintaining a weight loss rate of 2-4 kilograms per month can minimize related risks.