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How lifestyle factors can affect ED1
Lifestyle changes can be a valuable addition to any ED treatment the doctor prescribes and there are certainly benefits beyond sex. Remember to speak with your doctor before making any lifestyle changes.
Some changes you may want to consider are:
- Regular exercise: the benefits of regular exercise are well documented and may even boost levels of the male hormone, testosterone. This in turn may help achieve more regular erections.
- A balanced diet: a healthy diet may help to lower cholesterol levels. This in turn reduces the chance of cholesterol blocking your arteries, which reduces the blood flow needed to achieve an erection.
- Responsible drinking: heavy drinking reduces the ability to have an erection, but it's not that 'one time' that is the issue; it's long-term, excessive drinking that causes serious problems - nerve damage, liver damage and hormone imbalances. These are all good reasons to take it easy on the alcohol if you want to improve your erections.
- Reduced stress and fatigue: being diagnosed with prostate cancer and adjusting to the changes it brings can understandably preoccupy your mind. This, combined with just being physically and emotionally worn out, can make it difficult to 'get in the mood'. Talking with your partner might help to reduce stress. Psychologists or counsellors can help put things in perspective or for more serious conditions, such as anxiety and depression, you should see a doctor.
- Not smoking: if you needed yet another reason to stop smoking, here it is - studies indicate that sexual function is affected by smoking1. This is still relevant to men who have ED as a result of prostate cancer treatments because tobacco has a harmful affect on circulation and good circulation is needed for good erections.
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