According to Healthline, there are a few common factors that can influence ED which include but are not limited to being overweight, having a heart condition, having diabetes, hypothyroidism, obesity, epilepsy, MS, having blood pressure problems, low levels of testosterone, anxiety, depression, stress, bad nutrition, sleep issues, drugs, medications, lack of physical activity, relationship issues, alcohol, and smoking among other causes.
It is estimated that 30 million men in America alone have ED, and the prevalence increases with age estimates are that mild or moderate ED affects 10% of men for each decade of life. For example, 60% of men in their 60s might experience some form of ED. But ED can affect younger people as well, one study found that 1 in 4 men seeking first treatment for ED was under the age of 40.
ED is not inevitable, studies show that the healthier you are the better your sexual function will be, and that lifestyle choices are an important factor for ED. ED is most often related to issues with blood flow, maintaining blood vessel health can be helpful for the prevention and treatment of ED.
Following a balanced diet can help with erectile dysfunction, because certain foods such as watermelon which is rich in citrulline may help to increase blood flow to the penis. Zinc may also help because it is essential for the creation of testosterone, and oysters are an abundant source of zinc.
Spinach is loaded with magnesium which can help with blood flow and healthy erections. Healthy nuts like walnuts and almonds may also help to improve blood flow and encourage healthy erections. A small study indicated that a plant-based diet could be helpful in treating erectile dysfunction.
Certain herbs and supplements may also be of benefit such as Shatavari, DHEA, ginseng, L-carnitine, L-arginine, zinc, and horny goat weed. But keep in mind that you shouldn’t buy herbs and supplements for ED without speaking to your doctor beforehand.
Kegel exercises are simple movements that help to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, limited research suggests that when combined with healthy lifestyle changes it may help to improve ED. It is unclear how acupuncture works to treat ED as studies are limited and their results have yielded mixed results but there is anecdotal evidence suggesting that it may help to treat psychological ED.
Perhaps one of the best things that a man experiencing ED can do to help with the symptoms of ED is moderate to vigorous exercise, not only is it good for overall health and stress relief, but it can increase blood flow which could help with ED. Yoga is another option that can help to relax your mind and body to release stress and anxiety that could be contributing to ED.
You may be able to improve some symptoms of ED yourself with lifestyle changes. It is important to remember that ED is a common condition, if you are experiencing symptoms of ED discuss it with your doctor as soon as possible to rule out underlying causes and design a treatment plan that is best for you.
