Many studies throughout the years have shown that a balanced, heart-healthy diet can help prevent and improve symptoms of erectile issues. Eating the right foods can reduce the risk of common vascular problems caused by high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and high triglyceride levels – and because erectile issues are sometimes a result of blood flow, maintaining vascular health with those foods might help to improve erectile function.
Here are a few healthy foods that can help remedy the symptoms of erectile dysfunction or erectile issues.
Fish
Salmon and other fatty fish are great sources of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can boost nitric oxide levels in your body. Fish can also lower your blood pressure and decrease your risks for heart attack and blood clots. Most experts agree to aim for roughly eight ounces of salmon a week. Sardines, fresh albacore tuna, and mackerel are other good sources of omega-3s.
Avocados
Avocados are an excellent source of healthy fats, potassium, and vitamins, most notably Vitamin E and zinc, which have positive effects on male sex drive and fertility. Zinc has been suggested to increase levels of free testosterone in the body, while vitamin E may improve sperm quality over time.
Tomatoes
One of the great things about tomatoes is their versatility – you can eat them in a variety of ways, and they’re loaded with all kinds of health benefits. Studies have shown that lycopene-rich foods, like tomatoes, may help prevent prostate cancer; they are also beneficial when it comes to sperm quality, as they seem to significantly improve sperm concentrations in the body. Just another reason to keep enjoying those carb-heavy pasta dishes!
Dark chocolate
Recent studies have shown that flavonoids, which are naturally occurring antioxidants, in dark chocolate improve circulation, which is beneficial for erectile issues that are due to poor circulation. According to these studies, flavonoids can help lower blood pressure and decrease cholesterol, both of which are factors that contribute to erectile issues.
Green tea
Green tea is rich in catechins, which are compounds that have been shown to speed up the liver’s capacity for turning fat into energy. But that’s not all they do: catechins also boost desire by promoting blood flow to the pelvic area. Essentially, they reduce free radicals that damage and inflame blood vessels, increasing their ability to transport blood. They also cause blood vessel cells to release nitric oxide, which increases the size of the blood vessels and leads to improved blood flow.
Hot peppers
Hot peppers such as cayennes, jalapeños, habañeros, and chili peppers contain various amounts of capsaicin, an alkanoid that is responsible for the peppers’ heat and spiciness. Capsaicin also protects the testosterone molecules from stress that can be caused by low calorie diets. Chilies have several heart-healthy benefits as well, including helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol and prevent blood clots.
Besides a rich, heart-healthy diet, there are other ways to help improve your sexual health; including vacuum pumps, exercise, and pelvic exercises.