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While a healthy libido is often viewed as a sign of overall well-being, there may be times when you wish to naturally reduce it—whether for personal, medical, or lifestyle reasons. Certain foods contain compounds that can influence hormone levels and lower sexual desire. If you're looking to manage your libido through diet, here are five foods known to have a suppressing effect.
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Here are five foods that may help suppress sexual desire.
1. Soy Products
Soy-based foods like tofu, soy milk, and edamame contain phytoestrogens, which mimic oestrogen in the body.
High oestrogen levels can reduce testosterone, the hormone most responsible for sexual desire, potentially leading to a decrease in libido.
2. Liquorice
Liquorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has been shown to lower testosterone levels in men.
A lower level of testosterone can result in a reduced sex drive, making liquorice tea or extract a potential option for those looking to suppress libido.
3. Mint
While refreshing and beneficial for digestion, mint—especially peppermint and spearmint—has been linked to lowered testosterone levels.
Spearmint tea, in particular, has been studied for its potential to reduce excessive hair growth in women by lowering androgens, which may also contribute to a reduction in libido.
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4. Dairy Products
Dairy, particularly milk and cheese, contains hormones that may disrupt the body's natural hormone balance.
Some studies suggest that excessive consumption of dairy could lower testosterone levels, leading to decreased sexual desire.
5. Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are packed with lignans, which are plant compounds that have oestrogenic properties. High intake of flaxseeds has been linked to reduced testosterone levels, making them a good choice for those looking to decrease sexual desire.
If you're looking to naturally reduce your libido, incorporating some of these foods into your diet might help. However, it's important to maintain a balanced diet to ensure overall health and well-being. If you're experiencing extreme changes in your libido that concern you, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.