The inability to obtain an adequate erection for satisfactory sexual activity can tank your self-esteem and stress your marriage or relationship. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is more common in men over 50, but it can occur at any age. It affects the quality of life of over 30 million American men and their partners. Unfortunately, ED is more than a bedroom problem because 70 percent of cases result from debilitating or potentially fatal physical conditions. ED also is twice as prevalent in men suffering from depression.
Getting a proper diagnosis is vital to catch and treat any related physical and/or mental conditions. Your doctor also can determine if an ED prescription like (Tadalafil) is appropriate for you, but your daily habits also can make a big difference. Research shows lifestyle modifications can help you overcome ED.
The Various Causes and Symptoms of ED
A of 810 men aged 35 to 80 found 31 percent developed erectile dysfunction over a five-year period. The major risk factors were physical rather than psychological conditions. They included being overweight or obese, having a high alcohol intake, difficulty sleeping, having obstructive sleep apnea and age. The results showed that modifiable lifestyle factors helped 29 percent overcome their ED issues naturally.
Researchers noted that erectile dysfunction can be a marker for underlying cardiovascular disease, often occurring before heart conditions become apparent. Besides addressing risk factors such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and diabetes, they concluded better nutrition, weight control, exercise, reduced alcohol consumption and adequate sleep are likely to improve sexual ability and health.
According to Harvard Medical School, other causes include atherosclerosis, kidney disease, neurological disease, prostate cancer and vascular disease. Research shows that men who exercise 30 minutes a day are 40 percent less likely to have ED than sedentary men.
Watch What You Consume
Avoid the following foods that can lead to ED.
- Sodium. Eating sodium-rich food increases your blood pressure and decreases blood flow to your organs. Skip salty snacks, pickled foods, bacon, cured meat, cheese, salt and soy sauce.
- Oily and saturated foods. These choices increase your risk of high bad cholesterol, which affects blood flow to your organs. Avoid meat (especially processed meat), fish oil, hydrogenated palm and coconut oil, butter, eggs and whipped cream.
- Trans fats. Fried and packaged foods containing trans fats can clog your arteries. Decline chips, french fries, margarine, cookies and cakes.
- Sugar. Poor blood sugar control can lead to blood vessel and nerve damage that may hamper sexual performance. Boycott sugary drinks and treats.
- Alcohol. Researchers report a glass of red wine per day is fine, but other alcoholic drinks can lead to erectile dysfunction.
Inadequate blood supply to the penis can cause ED. Counteract that problem with foods that promote circulation.