How Diet Can Help With ED
There is evidence that reveals an association between different diets and men’s sexual health?
Sexual disorders such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation have more than a few causes behind them. While there is a stigma attached to sexual dysfunction, educating individuals on the various things that can positively or negatively affect their sexual health is important. From medications to psychosexual therapy, there are ways to help treat the symptoms of ED, PE, and other sexual disorders. However, many often forget that their lifestyle can bring about changes in their sexual health as well. One lifestyle modification that many take for granted is diet — a bad diet can cause many things from medical conditions such as hypertension to affecting erectile function.
Did you know that there is evidence that reveals an association between different diets and men’s sexual health? According to a study, ED symptoms were improved in men that consumed a Mediterranean diet — a diet that helps keep conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases at bay). Furthermore, men with higher BMI’s that lost weight through healthy diets saw improved erectile function. So, how does diet help with ED, a common sexual disorder?
You may have heard that ED could be an early indicator of heart disease. Blood flow is one of the most important factors when it comes to getting and maintaining an erection. Health concerns, some of which are closely associated with a bad diet, can increase the risk of developing or worsening ED symptoms. These health issues include being physically inactive, binge drinking, atherosclerosis, and most importantly, obesity. Diets that are high in fats, and carbohydrates, contribute to obesity, which further can lead to worsening ED symptoms. Do you see the connection?
There are foods that improve erectile function by aiding in improved blood flow, increased testosterone and nitric oxide production. You may be wondering, what are some foods that help with this and why do they help?
Nitrate containing foods
Nitrates are natural chemical compounds. They have the ability to cause vasodilation (that occurs with the relaxation of arteriolar and sinusoidal smooth muscle) that helps an erection. Furthermore, they also produce nitric oxide, which is beneficial for vascular health and blood flow.
What are some nitrate-rich foods?
- Beetroot
- Celery
- Spinach
- Radish
Zinc containing foods
A study found that men who received 30 milligrams of this essential mineral per day showed increased levels of free testosterone in their bodies. Low levels of testosterone can affect erectile function.
What are some Zinc-rich foods?
- Oysters
- Beef
- Crab
- Beans
- Yoghurt
L-Arginine containing foods
This amino acid found in protein helps in the creation of nitric oxide, which further helps in smooth muscle relaxation that allows for an erection to be maintained. L-arginine is said to help as another research study discovered that men with ED commonly have low levels of the amino acid.
What are some L-Arginine-rich foods?
- Fish
- Red meat
- Poultry
- Whole grains
- Beans
- Dairy
Flavanoid containing foods
These are compounds naturally found in fruits and vegetables. There are rich in antioxidant activity and detoxification. An early study revealed that men of ages 18–40 who had 50 mg of flavonoids per day, were 32% less likely to report with ED. Furthermore, more research data has suggested that flavanoid-rich foods are associated with a lower ED incidence. These compounds help in increasing blood flow and nitric oxide — the latter is needed for muscles in the penis to relax allowing for the chambers of the penis to fill with blood resulting in an erection.
What are some Flavonoid-rich foods?
- Cocoa
- Dark chocolate
Lycopene containing foods
This natural compound is found in foods that are commonly pink or red. This is because it contains a chemical called carotenoid, which has a natural red/pink pigment. Research has suggested that lycopene improved ED in rats, allowing researchers to explore the idea of the compound possibly becoming a treatment option. Another study further revealed that the compound has benefits for cardiovascular health — which is a major aspect of ED.
What are some Lycopene-rich foods?
- Watermelon
- Tomatoes
- Red peppers
- Papaya
Pro tip: Why should you include watermelon in your diet?
Watermelon contains L-citrulline, an amino acid that has been associated with several health benefits. Studies have revealed that supplementation of this amino acid aids in the increase of nitric oxide levels, and improves blood flow to vessels. Furthermore, it was also proved that a combination of the amino acid and resveratrol improved ED symptoms in men that were treated with PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil.
Taking care of your overall health and consuming a nutritious diet can help prevent or manage erectile dysfunction. However, before you make any changes in your diet, it’s advised that you consult with an andrologist, urologist, and/or a psychiatrist to understand the cause behind your ED symptoms. With the help of their prescribed treatment plan, you will be able to abide by their advice of adding or removing certain foods from your diet.
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