TROUBLE DOWN THERE? Overcoming impotence naturally
Erectile Dysfunction(ED) is man’s inability to erect or maintain an erection. According to experts, the condition mostly affects older men but this does not exclude young men. ED is commonly caused by stress, depression, relationship problems, diabetes, anxiety, surgery, smoking and alcohol among others. Its one and only symptom is inability to get or maintain an erection.
The treatment for ED varies from counseling, lifestyle changes, to surgery. It is important to see a doctor when you discover you have this condition because it can be a sign of underlying health problems. Contrary to popular beliefs, ED is treatable. Here are some natural methods and lifestyle changes you can adopt to treat it.
Identify the cause: This is a call for introspection. When did you start experiencing ED? What was going on in your life during that time? If you answer these questions, you may be halfway to your healing, as the treatment you will receive will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.
Exercise: If you want to keep diseases at a bay, ED included, exercise habitually. Exercise improves blood flow, which is very essential to a strong erection. Weight bearing exercises also increase the natural production of testosterone, a significant factor in erectile strength and sex drive.
Eat a balanced diet: It has been said again and again that your eating habit is equivalent to your health. Always watch what you consume and ensure your diet is well balanced. According to experts a diet rich in fruits, vegetables whole grains and fish decreases the risk of ED.
Stick to your sleep schedule: Sleep is very important for your health. Researchers say that poor sleep habits can result to erectile dysfunction. Research shows lack of sleep can lower testosterone, which ultimately affects sex drive. Hormone secretion is controlled by the body’s internal clock and sleep patterns help the body to determine when to release certain hormones. Hence if hitting the sheets late in the night is your routine, it is in your best interest to change the habit.
Quit smoking: Smoking can lead to narrowing of important blood vessels. Smoking can thus block the arteries and capillaries supplying blood to the penis leading to ED.
Quit alcohol: Alcohol is a depressant and can cause erectile dysfunction. Heavy drinking depresses the central nervous system, causing it to function less efficiently. The central nervous system is responsible for releasing nitric oxide, which is essential for producing and maintaining an erection.
Take watermelon juice: It’s not a myth; watermelons may act as a natural Viagra. Research has shown that citrulline, the amino acid found in high concentrations in watermelon, is useful in improving blood flow. It does so by creating nitric oxide.
Counselling: If the doctor diagnoses your erectile dysfunction is caused by stress, anxiety or depression, you and your partner can visit a counsellor who will visit your concerns.
Sex therapy: Medications that increase blood flow to the penis would be ineffective if the erection is blocked by fear or anxiety. One of the ways to treat ED caused by anxiety, depression or stress is sex therapy. A professional sex therapist can conduct the therapy in individual or couple sessions and guide you to reclaiming your sexuality.
What to do if your man has ED
Learn as much as you can about the condition. The more you know the better you will be able to help him.
Adjust your sexual life, stay positive and keep the other intimate parts of your relationship.
Mind your language as it can further sink the patient into depression
Published in February 2016
