Does the keto diet affect sex drive?
Although there is some evidence that the ketogenic diet can improve sexual function in certain people, there is very little research on the subject.
The amount of testosterone in a person's body determines how sexually motivated they are. According to an older study from 2014Trusted Source, having low levels can impair libido. The evidence on how keto affects testosterone is mixed: some studies say it reduces the hormone, while others suggest it may potentially raise it.
The benefits of a keto diet in patients with chronic health issues have been studied in certain studies. Women with obesity reported enhanced sexual performance after four months on a low-calorie keto diet, according to a small 2018 study Trusted Source.
They did, however, report weight loss, decreased food and alcohol cravings, and improved sleep. This indicated that the diet resulted in a higher overall quality of life, including increased sexual function and libido. As a result, the diet did not cause these sexual improvements on its own.
While a low-calorie ketogenic diet has been linked to increased libido and sexual function, it may not be a long-term healthy option. There is little data on the long-term benefits of a ketogenic diet.