Having issues with erectile dysfunction (ED) is not a laughing matter. It can be a sensitive issue that can provoke insecurity, anxiety and affect your relationships too.

Erectile dysfunction is more common than you may think; a study shows that one in four men over the age of 40 suffers from it. However, there are ways you can protect your erections and prevent ED from worsening. Let’s dive into the top four.

1. Regular exercise

It is no secret that exercising is great for your health, but did you know it could also help to protect your erections? Studies have shown that consistent exercise increases your body’s nitric oxide levels, which can boost blood flow.

Blood flow is essential to achieving and maintaining a healthy erection. Regular exercise can also decrease the risk of heart disease, which can cause ED by affecting blood flow to the penis and cause nerve damage.

2. Balance your diet

It’s said, “you are what you eat.” This expression is especially valid in terms of how it can affect your sex drive and erectile function.

A balanced diet can significantly improve your overall health, which means improving your sexual health. A healthy diet means getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs to maintain healthy blood flow. A study has shown that eating a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, low in sugar and processed foods can reduce the risk of ED.

3. Quit smoking and avoid substances

Cigarette smoking is one of the leading causes of ED. Smoking narrows blood vessels in the body, including those in your penis, which can lead to poor blood flow and cause long-term damage to your arterial system.

Besides cigarettes, recreational drugs are also known to worsen ED. Heroin, cocaine, amphetamines, and other psychoactive drugs can cause nerve damage and decrease blood flow.

4. Manage stress

Stress is not only terrible for our overall mental and physical health, but it could be the root cause of your erectile dysfunction.

When we’re stressed, our blood pressure is higher, and our body releases specific stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which constrict blood vessels, leaving less blood to go around. This can lead to difficulties achieving and maintaining erections. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and exercise can help, or even speaking to a specialist can help improve your stress levels and in hand, protect your erections.

Conclusion

These are just some of the techniques that can help protect your erections and prevent ED from worsening.

By exercising regularly, balancing your diet, quitting smoking and managing stress, you can improve your overall health and protect your sexual health too. If you are still struggling with ED, speak with your doctor, who can help find an appropriate treatment plan, and always remember, you are not alone.