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Sugar, sex and your health: The connection you might be ignoring

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Original Story by CNN
July 14, 2025
Sugar, sex and your health: The connection you might be ignoring

Context:

High blood sugar can significantly impact sexual health, affecting both men and women by causing erectile dysfunction and reducing libido, among other issues. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage blood sugar levels and improve overall health, while medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists are becoming popular for treating diabetes and promoting weight loss. GLP-1 injections are not only effective for managing blood sugar but also have shown potential in enhancing testosterone levels and sexual function. Despite the availability of medical treatments, the root cause of these health issues often ties back to excessive sugar consumption, which affects metabolism, mood, and intimate life. It's crucial to address sugar intake and consider lifestyle adjustments before relying solely on medications to improve health outcomes and sexual well-being.

Dive Deeper:

  • High blood sugar can have detrimental effects on sexual health, leading to erectile dysfunction in men and causing issues like vaginal dryness and painful sex in women, often before diabetes is even diagnosed.

  • Lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in whole foods, can significantly improve blood sugar management, insulin sensitivity, and sexual function by enhancing blood flow and hormone balance.

  • GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs, originally developed for type 2 diabetes, are gaining attention for their ability to aid in weight loss and improve sexual health by mimicking natural hormones that regulate blood sugar and digestion.

  • Research indicates that GLP-1 injections can increase normal testosterone levels in men with obesity or type 2 diabetes, highlighting their role in hormone regulation and overall health improvement.

  • Many individuals are unaware of what constitutes normal blood sugar levels, and regular monitoring through home glucose monitors or wearable devices can provide valuable insights into one's health status.

  • The hemoglobin A1c test is a critical measure for understanding average blood sugar levels over time and is crucial in assessing the risks of surgical complications and overall health outcomes.

  • Despite the benefits of modern medications, addressing the root cause of health issues, such as excessive sugar consumption, is vital for long-term improvements in mood, metabolism, and sexual well-being.

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