How does vitamin D deficiency affect sexual health?

Vitamin D deficiency causes women to have reduced estrogen levels; thereby reducing desire, orgasm and sexual satisfaction.

A study published in the European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology , found that vitamin D deficiency caused women to have abnormal sexual function, leading to symptoms of depression. Women also had lower orgasm rates.

Women who are deficient in vitamin D after menopause may be more susceptible to metabolic syndrome. This syndrome is related to the body's metabolic system, leading to conditions such as diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, affecting sex life.

Vitamin D deficiency also reduces estrogen levels in women, which leads to decreased sexual desire. Estrogen also helps strengthen vaginal muscles and improve vaginal lubrication. Therefore, vitamin D deficiency indirectly causes vaginal dryness, making sexual activity uncomfortable.

In men, vitamin D deficiency can lead to decreased libido, as well as affect other functions such as erection and orgasm. This vitamin is also essential for penis development and high testosterone levels.

Sources of vitamin D supplements. Photo: BetterLiving — Sources of vitamin D supplements. Photo: *BetterLiving*

Everyone should get vitamin D through diet and supplements if needed. Vitamin D needs vary by age and health status. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D is 600 international units (IU) per person, increasing to 700 IU for people over 70 years of age. A person should only get a maximum of 4,000 IU of vitamin D per day.

The easiest way to get vitamin D is to get some sun exposure. People should reduce the harmful effects of UV rays by regularly applying sunscreen and limiting their exposure to strong sunlight.

Few foods are naturally rich in vitamin D, with fatty fish and fish oils being the richest sources. Smaller amounts are found in egg yolks, cheese, mushrooms, milk, and fortified cereals.

Chile (According to Healthshots, Times of India )

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