M19. Melhorando sua libido depois da Bari - Aula 5 . Libido e Saúde da Mulher

M19. Melhorando sua libido depois da Bari - Aula 5 . Libido e Saúde da Mulher

Introduction and Overview

Welcome and Initial Engagement

  • The speaker greets the audience, asking for confirmation of visibility and audio quality. They acknowledge participants in the chat, creating an interactive atmosphere.
  • The speaker mentions waiting a few minutes for more attendees to join before starting the session on women's health and libido. They express gratitude for everyone’s presence.

Setting Expectations

  • The speaker clarifies that there will be no live participation from students but encourages questions via chat, which they will relay to Marcela during the presentation.
  • A reminder is given that the session will be recorded, emphasizing the importance of live engagement for real-time questions and answers.

Introduction of Marcela

Presenter Background

  • Marcela is introduced as a nutritionist with a focus on women's health, including fertility and menopause issues. She shares her experience working with bariatric patients but notes her current focus has shifted somewhat away from this area.

Session Focus

  • The discussion will center around libido, addressing common concerns women have post-bariatric surgery versus scientific findings that suggest improvements in libido after such procedures. Marcela aims to provide insights into enhancing relationships through understanding these dynamics.

Understanding Women's Health

Key Concepts in Women's Health

  • Emphasis is placed on recognizing women as cyclical beings, where hormonal changes influence physical and emotional well-being throughout different phases of life (e.g., menstrual cycle). This cyclical nature parallels natural phenomena like lunar phases.

Importance of Self-Knowledge

Understanding the Menstrual Cycle and Body Awareness

The Importance of Self-Knowledge

  • The speaker emphasizes the significance of self-awareness, particularly in understanding one's body and its functions. This involves observation and self-analysis to connect menstrual cycles with emotional and physical states.
  • Patients are encouraged to become independent in their health journey, moving beyond passive acceptance of information. Recognizing personal symptoms is crucial for effective self-management.

Recognizing Symptoms

  • Identifying specific symptoms such as hair loss, weak nails, or low libido is essential. Understanding when these symptoms occur contributes to a deeper bodily literacy.

Overview of the Menstrual Cycle

  • A clear distinction is made between menstruation and the menstrual cycle; menstruation is just one part of a larger cycle that typically spans from day 1 to day 28.
  • The menstrual cycle includes various phases beyond menstruation itself, highlighting that it encompasses hormonal changes throughout the entire month.

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

  • The speaker outlines two main phases: the follicular phase (before ovulation) and the luteal phase (after ovulation). Each phase has distinct hormonal activities affecting both ovaries and uterus.

Follicular Phase

  • During this phase, which lasts from day 1 until ovulation, estrogen production is stimulated by FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), preparing for potential ovulation around day 14.

Luteal Phase

Hormonal Changes and Menstrual Cycle Insights

Understanding Progesterone's Role

  • The hormone signals the need for progesterone production, which is crucial for endometrial health. It aids in either supporting implantation during pregnancy or preparing for menstruation.

Hormonal Fluctuations During the Menstrual Cycle

  • Juliana raises a question about why gynecologists request blood tests on the third day of menstruation to analyze hormone levels like FSH, LH, progesterone, and estrogen.
  • The speaker believes that while testing on the third day isn't strictly necessary, knowing the exact day of menstruation is vital for accurate hormonal assessment.

Importance of Timing in Hormonal Testing

  • Blood tests are often requested at specific cycle points; early cycle tests may show low progesterone levels as expected.
  • If a test shows low progesterone on day 21 of the cycle (luteal phase), it indicates a deficiency rather than normalcy if tested earlier in the cycle.
  • Accurate timing helps avoid misinterpretation of hormonal changes and ensures proper diagnosis regarding hormonal imbalances.

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle: Follicular vs. Luteal

  • The discussion transitions to understanding internal bodily changes during different menstrual phases, focusing on follicular (left side) and luteal (right side).
  • In a balanced follicular phase, adequate FSH leads to optimal estrogen production, resulting in increased confidence and sociability.

Consequences of Imbalance During Follicular Phase

  • An imbalance can lead to inflammation and symptoms such as pain, cramps, acne, and other menstrual issues due to excess estrogen or testosterone accumulation.
  • Severe menstrual cramps requiring medication are common but not normal; awareness is essential for those with bariatric surgery history due to potential iron deficiency from heavy bleeding.

Recognizing Symptoms and Their Implications

  • Increased menstrual flow could indicate more significant blood loss leading to iron deficiency; monitoring changes in flow intensity is crucial.
  • Stress negatively impacts balance during this phase; maintaining equilibrium is vital for overall well-being throughout the menstrual cycle.

Productivity Cycles Linked to Menstrual Phases

  • There’s an interesting observation that women feel more attractive during their follicular phase due to physiological changes affecting self-perception positively.
  • Studies suggest women tend to spend more money during this phase because they feel good about themselves—highlighting how hormonal fluctuations influence behavior significantly.

Hormonal Balance and Nutrition Strategies

Importance of Neurotransmitter Balance

  • A balanced state of neurotransmitters leads to high productivity, making it an ideal time for starting new projects and work meetings.
  • Hormonal imbalances can result in negative symptoms such as frustration, lack of energy, social withdrawal, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues like constipation.

Individualized Nutritional Strategies

  • The strategies discussed are tailored to individual needs; what works for one person may not work for another. This highlights the importance of personalized approaches in nutrition.

Nutritional Focus During Follicular Phase

  • The goal during the follicular phase is to regulate inflammation and balance estrogen levels to reduce pain signals associated with menstrual discomfort. Key nutrients include magnesium, zinc, inositol, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Specific foods like flaxseed and pumpkin seeds are recommended; they help regulate hormone production when cycled appropriately throughout the follicular phase. One tablespoon of each seed daily is suggested.

Anti-inflammatory Foods

  • Ginger is highlighted as a natural anti-inflammatory that can alleviate menstrual cramps without medication; ginger tea or flavored water can be effective remedies. Additionally, rosemary tea is noted for its benefits against menstrual pain.
  • A moderate carbohydrate intake is encouraged during this phase but should focus on high-quality sources while avoiding excessive sugars and refined flours. This approach supports overall health during this critical time in the cycle.

Luteal Phase Detoxification Strategies

  • The luteal phase requires detoxification from excess hormones accumulated during the follicular phase; this includes managing estrogen and testosterone levels through dietary choices. Chai teas made from dandelion root are beneficial for liver support and detoxification processes within the body.
  • Other recommended detoxifying agents include chlorella (a superfood) and boldo tea which also aids digestion by stimulating bile production necessary for detoxification efforts during PMS symptoms.

Seed Cycling in Luteal Phase

  • In contrast to the follicular phase where flaxseed and pumpkin seeds are used, sunflower seeds (without shells) and sesame seeds are recommended during the luteal phase to provide calcium which helps manage fluid retention common at this stage of the cycle.
  • Essential vitamins such as Vitamin C, B6, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids should be emphasized in diet plans during this period to enhance mood stability while reducing stress responses leading up to menstruation.

Sleep and Hormonal Balance

Importance of Sleep During Menstrual Cycle

  • Special attention to sleep is crucial, especially for women experiencing insomnia or sleep disturbances during their menstrual cycle.
  • Disruptions in sleep can exacerbate stress responses, leading to increased inflammation and worsening premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.

Nutritional Strategies for Hormonal Health

  • Consider a low-carb diet that includes more protein-rich foods and vegetables; aim for a colorful and varied diet to meet nutritional needs.
  • Discussion on the use of Mirena IUD among bariatric patients to reduce menstrual bleeding and prevent iron deficiency.

Managing Menstrual Symptoms with Mirena

Understanding Mirena's Functionality

  • The Mirena IUD is designed to stop menstruation but may take time for full effect; some users might experience light bleeding initially.
  • Even with Mirena, ovarian cycles continue; hormonal release occurs locally in the uterus without halting overall hormonal activity.

Regulating Menstrual Cycles

  • Implementing a "seed cycling" strategy can help regulate menstrual cycles, particularly useful for those experiencing irregularities after starting Mirena.
  • Users may experience spotting for several months post-insertion; monitoring placement of the device is essential.

Strategies for Identifying Ovulation

Simulating a Menstrual Cycle

  • To track ovulation without clear signals, simulate a cycle using different seeds (e.g., pumpkin seeds at the start).
  • Other indicators like basal body temperature and cervical mucus consistency can also provide insights into ovulation timing.

Addressing Sleep Issues Related to PMS

Managing Sleep Disturbances

  • Individuals without PMS but experiencing sleep issues should consider dietary adjustments and stress management strategies.

Strategies for Managing Sleep and Hormonal Changes

Importance of Sleep Hygiene

  • Emphasizes the role of sleep in improving concentration and focus, particularly during hormonal changes like premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
  • Suggests reducing exposure to screens (TV, phones) at least two hours before bedtime to enhance sleep quality.
  • Recommends avoiding heavy meals late at night to prevent digestive issues that can disrupt sleep.

Nutritional Considerations

  • Discusses how weight loss from bariatric surgery may reduce cravings for sweets associated with PMS by decreasing inflammation.
  • Warns that deficiencies in vitamins B6 and magnesium could worsen anxiety and cravings if not managed post-surgery.

Understanding Cravings and Insulin Resistance

  • Notes that increased cravings for sweets can be linked to insulin resistance, which is common before surgery.
  • Highlights the need for self-awareness regarding body changes after surgery, as metabolic responses will differ.

Exploring Libido: Myths and Realities

Defining Libido

  • Introduces libido as not just sexual desire but also a measure of creative energy; low energy often correlates with low libido.

Questions About Libido

  • Poses critical questions about factors affecting libido, including potential solutions or "magic" foods that might enhance it.

Disentangling Sexual Dysfunctions

Understanding Low Libido and Its Causes

The Impact of Sexual Aversion and Pain on Libido

  • Sexual aversion can lead to extreme anxiety and repulsion at the thought of engaging in sexual activity, making it difficult for individuals to participate in sexual acts.
  • In women, two specific pain-related issues are highlighted: dyspareunia (persistent or recurring pain during penetration) and vaginismus (inability to allow penetration). These conditions significantly affect libido.
  • Anticipation of pain or actual pain during sexual activity can diminish sexual desire, linking low libido with disorders of sexual arousal.

Factors Contributing to Reduced Libido

  • Several factors contribute to reduced libido; seven key causes are identified:
  • Hormonal imbalances involving testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone.
  • Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly serotonin and dopamine related to anxiety and depression.
  • Nutrient deficiencies that may lead to low libido.
  • Stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and inadequate blood flow (vasodilation) can also negatively impact libido. A lack of proper blood flow may reduce sexual desire.

Lifestyle Influences on Libido

  • High alcohol consumption is linked with immune suppression and increased sleepiness, which can delay orgasm and lower libido levels. Medications like SSRIs (antidepressants) may also have side effects that reduce sexual desire.
  • Bariatric surgery can lead to various factors affecting libido including vitamin/mineral deficiencies as well as stress from dietary changes post-surgery. This multifaceted issue requires careful consideration of individual health impacts following such procedures.

Nutritional Deficiencies Affecting Libido

  • Vitamin D plays a crucial role in hormone production; low levels can result in decreased testosterone production leading to lower libido while also being associated with increased anxiety levels. Addressing vitamin D deficiency could improve both mood and sexual desire.
  • B vitamins (B1, B6, B9, B12) are essential for managing anxiety levels; deficiencies here correlate with reduced libido as well as heightened anxiety symptoms requiring monitoring through appropriate testing and supplementation strategies.

Importance of Minerals for Sexual Health

  • Zinc is vital not only for women's vaginal secretions but also plays a role in overall hormonal balance impacting libido positively.
  • Magnesium contributes by promoting relaxation necessary for achieving orgasm; its deficiency might hinder this process due to muscle tension issues associated with stress responses.

Conclusion

The discussion emphasizes the complex interplay between physical health factors—such as hormonal balance, nutritional status—and psychological aspects like stress or anxiety that collectively influence an individual's sex drive or interest in intimate relationships.

Understanding Libido and Nutritional Influences

The Role of Antioxidants in Libido

  • Discussion on the potential aphrodisiac properties of cacao and various fruits rich in antioxidants, such as açaí, jabuticaba, blueberries, and blackberries.
  • Emphasis on understanding the root cause of low libido before consuming antioxidant-rich foods; not all cases are due to antioxidant deficiency.

Importance of Nutrient Levels

  • Common deficiencies observed in individuals post-bariatric surgery; laboratory standards may not reflect optimal nutrient levels for libido.
  • Ideal vitamin D levels for testosterone production should be above 50; excessively high levels (100+) are not beneficial.
  • Recommended B12 levels should exceed 600; zinc should be above 100. Magnesium is challenging to measure accurately but ideally should be around 2.5–2.6.

Analyzing Causes of Low Libido

  • Acknowledgment that identifying the cause of low libido can be complex; however, correcting vitamin deficiencies can improve overall health even if they aren't the direct cause.
  • Encouragement to analyze personal lifestyle factors affecting libido and consider supplementation for essential vitamins.

Menopause and Its Effects on Libido

  • Introduction to menopause-related questions from viewers, particularly regarding early menopause and its impact on libido.
  • Explanation of early menopause symptoms and the need for individualized strategies to manage these changes effectively.

Factors Affecting Libido Beyond Nutrition

  • Recognition that age naturally decreases libido over time; emotional connection with partners plays a crucial role in maintaining sexual desire.

Understanding Female Libido and Hormonal Balance

Importance of Vaginal Lubrication

  • Adequate vaginal lubrication is crucial for sexual activity; hydration plays a significant role in this process.
  • Dehydration can hinder the body's ability to produce sufficient vaginal secretions, negatively impacting sexual experiences.

Impact of Vitamin D on Hormones

  • Maintaining vitamin D levels above 50 is essential for androgen production, which includes testosterone—important for female libido.
  • In menopausal women, declining testosterone levels necessitate strategies to preserve or enhance hormonal production.

Effects of Inflammation and Weight on Libido

  • Chronic inflammation, often linked to gut dysbiosis, can contribute to low libido.
  • Excess weight adversely affects both libido and fertility; increased muscle mass correlates with higher testosterone production.

Nutritional Influence on Hormonal Health

  • Diet significantly impacts hormone levels; consuming ultra-processed foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies affecting libido.
  • A poor diet may not meet nutritional needs even if caloric intake seems adequate, leading to hormonal imbalances.

Role of Physical Exercise

  • Engaging in resistance training (e.g., weightlifting, Pilates) enhances testosterone production and overall hormonal balance.

Neurotransmitters: Dopamine and Serotonin

Connection Between Neurotransmitters and Libido

  • Dopamine and serotonin are critical neurotransmitters related to pleasure and well-being; their balance is vital for healthy libido.

Risks of Imbalance in Neurotransmitter Levels

  • High dopamine levels can lead to anxiety while excessive serotonin may cause lethargy; both states negatively affect libido.

Strategies for Balancing Neurotransmitters

  • Managing stress through meditation, therapy, and nature exposure helps regulate dopamine and serotonin levels effectively.

Importance of B Vitamins

Mucuna Pruriens and Its Effects on Dopamine Levels

Medicinal Use of Mucuna Pruriens

  • Mucuna pruriens is a medicinal plant that requires a prescription for use; self-medication is discouraged to avoid excessive dopamine levels.
  • It can be beneficial for individuals with low dopamine levels, alongside adequate chromium, vitamin B1, and vitamin B6 intake.

Serotonin Enhancement Cautions

  • 5-HTP, tryptophan, and crocusatives are recommended for serotonin improvement but should be approached cautiously.
  • Individuals on serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) should avoid combining these natural substances with their medications due to potential adverse effects.

Libido Changes Post-Bariatric Surgery

Observations on Libido After Surgery

  • Studies suggest an increase in libido post-bariatric surgery; however, practical experiences often contradict this claim.
  • The balance between dopamine and serotonin is crucial for sexual desire; dopamine is linked to immediate pleasure while serotonin contributes to overall well-being.

Impact of Surgery on Neurotransmitters

  • Bariatric surgery affects the nervous system through gut-brain connections, potentially increasing serotonin levels but decreasing dopamine.
  • Patients report diminished pleasure in food post-surgery, which may correlate with reduced libido as both are influenced by dopamine levels.

Strategies for Improving Dopamine Levels

Role of Mucuna in Dopamine Production

  • Mucuna contains L-DOPA, a precursor to dopamine that can help boost its production in individuals with deficiencies.
  • Vitamin B1 deficiency can exacerbate issues related to low dopamine levels; addressing this deficiency may improve overall conditions.

Hormonal Balance and Libido

Importance of Hormones in Sexual Desire

  • Both testosterone and estrogen play significant roles in regulating sexual desire; low levels of either hormone can lead to decreased libido.
  • Estrogen is particularly important for motivation and sexual performance alongside testosterone's role in enhancing sexual drive.

Consequences of Low Hormone Levels

  • Low estrogen leads to irregular menstrual cycles and symptoms like vaginal dryness which can affect sexual desire.
  • Insufficient testosterone results in lower libido, mood changes, osteoporosis risk, and poor body composition.

Improving Libido: Strategies Discussed

Approaches to Enhance Sexual Desire

Understanding the Benefits of Peruvian Maca and Other Natural Supplements

Overview of Peruvian Maca

  • The speaker introduces various studies on natural supplements, focusing on those with consistent results, starting with Peruvian maca, a yellow root known for its health benefits.
  • Different varieties of maca are mentioned: yellow (most commonly used), red, and black. It can be consumed as flour or through supplementation.
  • Maca is noted for balancing hormone levels and neurotransmitters, particularly beneficial for addressing low libido associated with antidepressant use.
  • A specific study indicates that a daily dose of 4 to 6 grams of maca improved libido in women taking antidepressants; it should be part of a broader strategy including nutritional balance.
  • Suggestions for incorporating maca into diets include mixing it into morning shots with cacao and beetroot; effects are chronic rather than immediate.

Additional Insights on Maca Usage

  • The speaker clarifies that both men and women can benefit from maca, especially regarding sexual performance issues like impotence.

Exploring L-Arginine

  • Transitioning to L-arginine, an amino acid found in food but also available as a supplement; it's important when dietary protein intake is low.
  • L-arginine enhances blood flow by being a precursor to nitric oxide, which improves oxygenation and nutrient delivery to enhance sexual pleasure.

Korean Ginseng Benefits

  • Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng), known for improving blood flow and oxygenation, is highlighted as beneficial for overall vitality and hormonal balance during menopause.

Damiana: An Herbal Solution

  • Damiana (Turnera diffusa), recognized as one of the most studied herbs for enhancing sexual performance and desire; it can have immediate effects when prepared as tea before intimate moments.
  • The speaker emphasizes the importance of sourcing quality damiana products to ensure effectiveness.

How to Prepare Herbal Teas and Their Effects on Libido

Preparing Herbal Teas

  • To make herbal tea, consider the type of plant used. For delicate parts like leaves or flowers, an infusion is recommended rather than boiling.
  • Heat water and steep the plant for 5 to 10 minutes to extract beneficial compounds effectively.
  • Damiana (Turnera diffusa) can be used before sexual activity, ideally one hour prior for optimal effects.

Benefits and Cautions of Specific Herbs

  • Maruama is noted for enhancing libido and blood flow but should be used cautiously by those with hypertension due to its blood flow-increasing properties.
  • Different parts of plants require different preparation methods: infusions for softer parts (5-10 mins), decoctions for harder parts (boil for about 8 mins).

Side Effects and Considerations

  • All herbal teas may have side effects; caution is advised especially regarding increased blood flow which can affect individuals with hypertension or pregnant women.
  • Herbs like catuaba and maca peruana may increase heart rate; thus, monitoring is essential.

Addressing Low Libido

  • Identifying the root cause of low libido is crucial—whether hormonal imbalance, anxiety, or nutritional deficiencies must be assessed first.
  • Nutritional factors such as vitamin D, zinc, and B vitamins play a significant role in addressing libido issues.

Lifestyle Factors Affecting Libido

  • A balanced diet that reduces inflammation can improve overall health and potentially enhance libido. Regular exercise also contributes positively.
  • While herbal teas are beneficial ("the cherry on top"), they should not replace addressing underlying issues related to stress or anxiety.

Hormonal Influences on Sexual Desire

  • The importance of hormone levels like DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), particularly after surgeries like bariatric surgery where levels may drop significantly.
  • DHEA is a precursor to testosterone; low levels could indicate a need for further investigation into hormonal health affecting sexual desire.

Libido Issues Post-Bariatric Surgery

Emotional Impact of Libido Changes

  • The discussion highlights a growing concern regarding libido post-bariatric surgery, with many women experiencing decreased sexual desire despite claims of improvement from medical professionals.
  • Women often feel isolated in their experiences, questioning why their libido has not improved while others report positive changes, leading to emotional distress.

Clinical Perspectives on Libido

  • A nutritionist raises concerns about the discrepancy between clinical studies and real-life experiences, noting that many women report low libido after surgery.
  • A gynecologist asserts that studies indicate an overall improvement in libido post-surgery but acknowledges that practical experience may differ from research findings.

Physical Factors Affecting Sexual Experience

  • The conversation reveals that physical changes, such as perineal muscle laxity due to weight loss, can lead to discomfort during sexual activity rather than a direct decrease in libido.
  • It is emphasized that discomfort during sex is distinct from issues related to sexual desire; thus, addressing physical concerns is crucial for improving the sexual experience.

Recommendations for Addressing Libido Issues

  • Engaging a pelvic physiotherapist is recommended to strengthen pelvic muscles and alleviate discomfort associated with sexual activity following significant weight loss.
  • The discussion notes the importance of distinguishing between different types of sexual dysfunction—those related to desire versus those affecting performance or comfort during sex.

Professional Support and Resources

  • Marcela shares her practice location in Brasília and offers online consultations, emphasizing her commitment to women's health and the complexities involved in this field.
  • Stress management techniques are highlighted as essential for post-operative patients; ongoing stress can exacerbate issues related to libido and overall well-being.

Hormonal Considerations

  • Consultation with an endocrinologist is advised for evaluating hormonal supplementation options like DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), which may help address hormonal imbalances affecting libido.

Discussion on Hormonal Health and Menopause

Importance of Monitoring Hormonal Levels

  • The speaker emphasizes the variability in hormonal levels during different cycles, indicating that monitoring is crucial for understanding individual health.
  • It is suggested to consult with an endocrinologist who adopts a balanced approach towards hormone replacement therapy (HRT), neither fully advocating nor opposing it.

Seeking Professional Guidance

  • The speaker encourages individuals to reach out for recommendations on integrative endocrinologists who can provide comprehensive care regarding hormonal issues.
  • Marcela, presumably a professional or expert, is mentioned as a resource for further consultation and support through social media platforms.

Community Support and Resources

  • The importance of community engagement is highlighted, suggesting that participants can ask questions within their community for additional support.
  • A reminder is given that the session will be recorded, allowing attendees to revisit the information shared at their convenience.

Preparing for Restful Sleep

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