Dealing With Erectile Dysfunction? A Healthy Diet May Help

Erectile dysfunction can cause self-esteem issues and may even introduce challenges to a relationship that seem insurmountable. But there are ways to reduce the prevalence or treat the problem, and a healthy diet may be the key place to start. Let’s explore how dietary choices may affect men who struggle with this problem.

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is evidenced as the inability to achieve or sustain an erection. It affects approximately one-third of men at some point in their life. In most cases, the percentage of men affected by this condition rises with age. But there are medical conditions that may also raise the risk of ED. Heart disease, obesity, smoking, diabetes, and alcohol consumption may all play roles in ED for some men.

For men with this condition, around 26% of whom are under the age of 40, the feelings of discomfort, embarrassment, or even shame about the condition may keep them from seeking medical intervention. Some may think "it's a one-time thing" and others may be waiting for it to go away. But the head-in-the-sand approach doesn't usually help and in fact, the condition can worsen with time. Discussing their condition may be something men struggling with ED want to avoid, but seeking help s key to halting progression and tackling the problem. Luckily, as many doctors will now advise as a first-stage approach to problem-solving, some men may be able to improve the issue with a better diet. 

How Is ED Typically Treated?

The standard treatment for ED involves medications, such as Cialis and Viagra, that increase blood flow and make it easier to achieve and maintain an erection. But medication is not the only option. ED might also improve with lifestyle changes.

Many medical professionals also look for any underlying cause of the issue because they want to treat the root problem. For example, treating a blocked blood vessel or having a patient lose weight may improve ED while also helping with other health problems while the medication is there for additional support in the meantime. 

How a Healthy Diet Helps Treat ED

Eating healthy may help in two different ways. First, it may encourage weight loss. Since obesity and ED are commonly linked, losing weight may help reduce the severity of the problem. 

Second, choosing a healthy diet is a proactive way to help keep arteries clear and reduce the chances of health problems like diabetes. The Mediterranean Diet is one example of a healthy diet, but there are lots of options and everybody has different needs. Unhealthy habits that lead to blocked arteries, reduced blood flow, and treatable or reversible health conditions may be the cause of many cases of erectile dysfunction.

When to Talk With a Doctor

Getting professional help as early as possible is important. Not only could working with a doctor improve sexual health, but it may also help spot an underlying condition that could increase the risk for other problems. Finding one that supports the desire for a healthier diet as one approach could be beneficial as well.

Having occasional erectile problems is common throughout the male population at all ages and usually is no cause for concern. But there’s no reason to simply accept ongoing or frequent erectile dysfunction as a part of life when there are options to improve the situation. By following a healthy diet and treating any underlying health conditions, there’s a better chance of returning to a comfortable level of sexual function, no matter a man’s age. 

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