The pandemic has caused the economy to flag. But it seems it’s also responsible for a sexual recession with nearly 40% of Brits claiming they had less sex in 2020 thanks to a loss of libido.
The main culprit for this passion rut is Covid, triggering low self-esteem and anxiety. But another potential cause is changing eating habits. With routines seriously out of whack and evenings spent snacking, our insides are being neglected.
But what has this to do with libido, you ask? Meet Dr Sunni Patel. As a Crohn’s disease sufferer himself, he knows all about the importance of gut health. Here, Dr Patel reveals how showing your gut some TLC can perk up your love life…
MAKING THE LINK
“You might think linking sex with the gut is far-fetched, but the science is very clear,” says Dr Patel. “The gut is responsible for our digestion, but it also plays an important role in lots of our body’s functions – from immune response and mood to sexual health and libido.
“The gut is home to trillions of bacteria, known as the gut microbiome. These need to be properly balanced. If they’re out of whack there’s a knock-on effect on our health, wellbeing and desire.”
THE LAW OF ATTRACTION
So how does poor gut health bring about a lack of desire? “Sex is about attraction,” explains Dr Patel. “Both parties must feel attractive and attracted. If gut bacteria is imbalanced, it can increase bloating, gas, acid reflux and bad breath. None of which will make you feel sexy!
This story is from the February 15, 2021 edition of New UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 15, 2021 edition of New UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
'I WAS ABUSED-I KEPT IT SECRET FOR 29 YEARS'
Actor Joe Tracini reveals the childhood trauma he believes sparked his complex mental health issues
'WE'D MARRY EACH OTHER TOMORROW'
Rob Rinder and Rylan Clark head off together to discover the art treasures of Italy - and find out more about themselves along the way
BEAT STRESS TO GET YOUR GLOW
Mental health and conditions such as acne and rosacea are deeply linked, so taking care of your mind could help give you radiant skin
Stabbed to death by her co-worker after innocent act of kindness
Celeste Manno, 23, was murdered by her stalker in her own bed
'I was literally dying inside'
Broadcaster and campaigner Charlie Webster tells new how hard it was to open up and face her childhood trauma
'Finding a lump was a wake-up call'
Love Island's Faye Winter tells new about her terrifying health scare as she sets out on a trek to raise funds for breast cancer charity CoppaFeel!
'I think we'd end up having twins again!'
Former TOWIE star Frankie Essex on expanding her family, losing weight and making a TV comeback
Coleen 'fears Wayne will let slip secrets'
As Wayne Rooney prepares to join a football podcast, wife Coleen is worried he may accidentally reveal details about their private life, a source tells new
'Sometimes I don't realise that I'm 84'
Bake Off's Prue Leith on strutting her stuff on the catwalk, feeling young at heart and Paul Hollywood being cheeky
Adele 'loves her new look'
Singer Adele is turning up the Hollywood glamour as she prepares to tie the knot with Rich Paul, a source tells new