Light On for Better Sex!

Light On for Better SexCan we really enjoy better sex by leaving the light on? It’s proven that exposure to bright light does increase testosterone levels and enhances sexual satisfaction in men. A recent European study reveals that this even includes those with low testosterone. A pilot study presented at a recent European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) conference in Vienna, used a basic premise that around ¼ of the men on the planet say they have problems in this regard, especially those that have passed their 40th birthday. A placebo-controlled trial was partially inspired by the scientists’ previous observation that revealed there were sexual interest changes according to the seasons.

Sexual satisfaction levels can actually be tweaked. Using a light box similar to those used to reduce Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD syndrome) in early morning hours for a two-week period, increased the subjects’ testosterone levels. Thirty-six men were participants in the study and had visited the university’s urology department and  been diagnosed with hypoactive sexual desire disorder or sexual arousal disorder. They were then divided into two groups by the researchers.

One of the groups was subjected to light from a specially adapted light box for half an hour every morning for two weeks. The other “control” group with a similar situation had the light boxes emitting much less light. The first group reported levels of sexual satisfaction after being subjected to the light therapy. Professor at the Department of Mental Health at Italy’s University of Sienna and study leader, Dr. Andrea Fagiolini, wasn’t surprised by the study conclusion and reported this in an ENCP news release.

The study determined a greater level of sexual satisfaction in the first group and constituted by the numbers that they had, there was an increase of 3 times higher than the second group.

The science isn’t yet at a point where it can be recommended as a clinical treatment for other individuals as there may be other factors to consider. Some men may have certain eye conditions or be on antidepressants, antibiotics or other medications that might affect their light sensitivity.

Light therapy is also one of the most effective therapies for depressions and SAD syndrome brought on by an absence of light, especially in areas of the world where sunlight is at a premium. In fact, sunshine could almost be considered an aphrodisiac because it can increase male testosterone level. Vitamin D is produced via sunlight on your skin and may be the trigger.

Sunlight used to be thought of by scientists as healthy because of the vitamin D is provides, but now know there is a lot more. The skin has large amounts of nitrite and nitrate that studies suggest the sunlight prompts the conversion of nitrate to nitrite and nitric oxide. The nitric oxide enhances blood flow and helps to regulate your blood pressure. The signals to the cells of your blood vessels are to relax so that the blood can flow more freely and help your arteries stay plaque free. Therefore, sunlight provides more than higher testosterone levels.

Someone that sits inside an office every day with fluorescent lighting, starves their body of the unfiltered ultraviolet light it needs to produce vitamin D. Lacking this can after your mood as well as your sexual desire. Only 10 minutes a day of sunlight on your skin can make a world of difference in the way you feel and think. Stress dampens your sex life and sex can relieve stress. Lack of sleep and energy is also a reason both men and women can have less of a desire for sex.

 – Dr Fredda Branyon