Lack (deficiency) of calcium is most often rooted in improper nutrition or overactivity of the parathyroid glands. In the case of calcium deficiency due to irregular intake, disturbances in the thought process occur, irritability increases, there is a lack of sleep and rapid onset of fatigue during physical activity. All these factors greatly lower libido – the desire for sexual contact. Lack of calcium is also associated with frequent headaches, muscle pains and a wide range of heart rhythm disorders. Such arrhythmias often lead to sexual dysfunction, not only in men but also in women. Optimal heart function is required to pump enough blood to the genitals to achieve sexual arousal. In addition, the pain puts a lot of stress on the body and mind, which leads to a further decrease in sexual desire. The second most common cause of calcium imbalance is dysfunction of the parathyroid glands. Four in number, they secrete the compound parathormone – a strong modulator of calcium metabolism in the body. When too much parathormone is released, the balance between calcium in the blood and in the bone tissue is disturbed – calcium compounds are released in the form of salts and leave the bones – they become thinner and break more easily. These salts get into the blood, where they damage muscle and nerve activity – excitability drops drastically, muscles relax, reactions slow down. NEWS_MORE_BOX The first reason is easy to treat – daily consumption of dairy products quickly restores calcium levels. Calcium supplements can also be taken, but they should not replace proper nutrition and should not be taken for more than 2-3 months without a doctor’s prescription. Also, the intake of foods rich in vitamin D improves the absorption of calcium. Good examples are salmon, tuna, eggs, etc. With an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, it takes about 3 weeks to return to normal sexual functions and a healthy libido. In the event that improvement does not occur, a consultation with an endocrinologist is advised – the increased activity of the parathyroid gland can be corrected surgically.