Experts confirm that Omega-3 improves sexual function

Experts believe that like many aspects of health, the human sex drive can be affected by the food intake. They believe that circulation enhancing nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids found commonly in fish such as mackerel and also found in cod liver oil can contribute towards enhancing human sex drive.

“Omega-3 makes the nervous system function better,” says Dr. Barbara Bartlik, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Sex Therapist with the Human Sexuality Program at Weill Cornell Medical Center. “Sex is really about circuitry,” she was quoted saying in Forbes.

Omega-3 found in cod liver oil is considered an essential oil the body needs but cannot be produced in the body and must be taken externally. Although it is found in oily fish such as mackerel, herring and sardines, such fish are not abundantly found in countries such as Sri Lanka.  Omega-3 has been closely associated with slowing down the process of prostate cancer in men and has also long been recognised as a part of a good health regime.

Exotic aphrodisiacs including those recommended in traditional Chinese medicine have always been in demand throughout the world. In 2005 alone, Amsterdam-based health care information company Wulters Kluwer reported that in the US, just under $1.4 billion was spent to treat male sexual dysfunction disorders.

Yet it seems they don’t really work the way a diet that includes Omega-3 does towards enhancing human sexual function, according to Dr. John Mulhall, Director of The Sexual Medicine Programme at the New York Presbyterian and Associate Professor of Urology at the Weill Medical College of the Cornell University.

Mulhall, who also serves on the Nutraceuticals Committee of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America says, “Every year, we review the libido enhancing compounds such as nitric oxide and ginseng – and there are none that have really been shown to be more than a placebo.”

He adds that the placebo effect probably accounts for 30 per cent of improvements in men and 50 per cent in women, when it comes to the sexual function. Changing the diet however and including more of Omega-3 fatty acids, found in cod liver oil can help more than medication or aphrodisiacs.

Research has confirmed that the contribution of Omega-3 essential fatty acids slows down the process of ageing. Omega-3 has also been closely associated with heart and bone health. Intake of Omega 3, reducing obesity and engaging in adequate exercise are considered as vital aspects in staying healthy. Minimising stress factors and engaging in leisurely pursuits are also considered important to maintain good health.