In a world where sexual health remains a topic shrouded in mystery and misconceptions, Dr. Andrew Huberman and Dr. Rena Malik come together in an enlightening episode of the Huberman Lab Podcast to shed light on the intricacies of urological and sexual health. Their conversation is a blend of scientific insights and practical advice, making it a must-listen for anyone keen on understanding their body better.
Pelvic Floor: More Than Just Muscles
The pelvic floor, a complex web of muscles, plays a pivotal role in urologic and sexual function. Dr. Malik emphasizes that while many believe strengthening the pelvic floor is the key to optimal health, some might benefit from relaxation techniques. It’s all about balance and understanding individual needs. If you want to know more about the pelvic floor and kegels for men click here.
Decoding Desire and Arousal
Sexual health isn’t just about the physical. Dr. Malik differentiates between psychological desire and genital arousal, debunking myths that hormones are the sole culprits behind sexual dysfunction. Often, issues with the pelvic floor and blood flow play significant roles.
Urinary Health: Beyond the Basics
From practical advice on preventing UTIs to understanding the importance of complete bladder emptying, the podcast offers a comprehensive guide to urinary health. Did you know that habits like holding in urine or improper posture on the toilet can lead to incomplete bladder emptying, increasing UTI risks?
Erectile Function, Vaginal Health, and Lifespan Considerations
The conversation doesn’t shy away from topics often deemed taboo. It delves deep into erectile function, vaginal lubrication, orgasm, and how sexual health evolves across different life stages.
Vaginal Estrogen: A Game-Changer
Vaginal estrogen, when applied directly, can be a game-changer in reducing recurrent UTIs. It helps restore the vagina’s natural acidic pH, creating an environment that wards off infections. And the best part? It’s safe, with minimal absorption into the bloodstream.
Supplements and Sexual Health
The podcast also ventures into the world of supplements. From Tonga Ali, known for its libido-enhancing properties, to L-Citrulline, beneficial for sexual health, Dr. Malik and Dr. Huberman provide a balanced view, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach that includes diet, exercise, and managing comorbidities.
Supplement Breakdown
- Tongkat Ali: An Indonesian herb known for mild libido enhancement. It’s particularly beneficial for those on SSRIs, as it can help counteract the libido-reducing effects of such medications. Both men and women have reported improvements in libido after taking Tongkat Ali. – I personally take this brand of Tongkat Ali Fadogia Agrestis
- Maca Root: Its exact mechanism of action is not well-understood, but it might involve modulation of estrogen receptors or changes in dopaminergic tone.
- Shilajit: An Ayurvedic herb that has shown to increase FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) levels in some studies. However, the quality and dosing of Sheila G can vary, making it a less commonly recommended supplement. – This is the brand of Shilajit that I take.
- L-Citrulline: Known for its potential benefits in sexual health.
- Ashwagandha: Recognized for stress reduction, which can indirectly benefit sexual function. – This is the Ashwagandha I take.
A Heartfelt Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Dr. Huberman expressing gratitude to Dr. Malik for her invaluable insights. Dr. Malik, in turn, lauds Dr. Huberman for his dedication to making science accessible to all. Their mutual respect and commitment to education shine through, making this episode not just informative but also deeply inspiring.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the complex world of sexual and urological health can be daunting. But with experts like Dr. Huberman and Dr. Malik guiding the way, the journey becomes enlightening. This podcast episode is more than just a conversation; it’s a masterclass in understanding the human body and its myriad functions. Whether you’re on a personal quest for knowledge or simply curious, this episode promises insights that will stay with you long after the final note.