Erectile Dysfunction & Diet

Did you know that erectile dysfunction may play a role in your dietary intake. Modifying your diet can help prevent or cure ED in some cases. Be careful with “natural Viagra” supplements such as “horny goat”, L-arginine, DHEA, Ginkgo, and Zinc. Consult with your doctor before taking or stopping any supplement or medication.

Lifestyle factors do play a role! It is also important to get your hormones levels checked as well to determine where your sex hormones are at.

1. Quitting smoking FOR A MILLION REASONS! But tobacco is a risk factor for ED. Quitting can improve your overall health and may reduce your ED symptoms. Ask your doctor about ways to quit.

2. Losing weight Being overweight or obese can lead to erectile dysfunction. In fact, a man with a 42-inch waist is 50 percent more likely to develop ED than a man with a 32-inch waist. Eating a healthy diet and getting enough physical activity can help you keep your weight under control.

3. Performing pelvic-floor exercises Moves to strengthen the muscles of your pelvic floor may help reduce symptoms of urinary incontinence. Some men also report improvements in ED.

4. Adopting a healthy sleep schedule Some research has shown that sleep patterns may affect testosterone levels in men. Adequate rest and a regular sleep schedule may help your overall sexual health.

5. Getting help for drug or alcohol dependence Using illicit drugs or drinking too much alcohol can lead to ED and other health problems. Quitting can be difficult, but your symptoms are likely to improve.

6. Changing or lowering the dose of your meds If certain medications are causing your ED symptoms, talk to your doctor about lowering your dose or trying a different drug to help your condition.

7. Practicing good oral hygiene Some research has shown gum infections (known as gingivitis) may be linked to problems getting an erection. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth every day. Also, see your dentist for a professional cleaning at least once a year, or whenever you have concerns about the health of your gums.

8. Reducing stress levels Stress is a known risk factor for erectile dysfunction. Activities to reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises, may also help your ED.