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How Lifestyle Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction & How to Address It

Millions of men live with erectile dysfunction, but many do not investigate the cause. Research suggests that nearly half of all men over the age of 40 experience ED in some form, but it isn’t all that uncommon in younger men.

There are many harmful myths about erectile dysfunction including, “it’s just a phase” or “maybe you aren’t attracted to your partner”. Myths such as these can be seriously damaging to a man’s sexual fulfillment and the health of his intimate relationships.

Lifestyle choices and their impact on your overall health are often at the root of erectile dysfunction. Unhealthy behaviors that cause stress or interfere with the cardiovascular system can lead to erectile issues in men and ultimately cause more serious concerns. It is important to stay knowledgeable and change behaviors in order to address ED and get on the path to better health.

Lack of Fitness Leads to Lack of Passion

Consistent workout routines and exercise have a significant impact on the male body’s ability to perform and even enjoy sex, for many reasons. Firstly, research has shown that men who exercise regularly have higher testosterone levels, which directly affects libido and sexual response. Additionally, a lack of exercise can cause higher body weight, which has the ability to upset healthy hormone balances and cause ED. Men who are of an unhealthy weight can experience a long-term state of inflammation in the body, damaged blood vessels, and lower testosterone. All of these combined health effects can wreak havoc on a man’s erectile functioning.

It’s important to note, however, that too much rigorous exercise can have the reverse effect and actually lower testosterone levels. If you’re new to working out, be sure you’re consulting a doctor or professional trainer so that you’re proceeding in a healthy, informed way. It’s also important that men keep their body weight healthy through regular exercise: not too high and not too low.

Aerobic exercise is especially good at improving cardiovascular fitness, which stimulates blood flow throughout the body, including the genital area. Keep this in mind and you find a healthy balance in your fitness routine.

How Alcohol & Drug Use are Holding You Back

Unhealthy habits including long-term smoking, as well as drug and alcohol use can also cause ED by impairing the circulatory system. Often, a drug’s presence in the body causes damage to the heart and blood vessels and restricts the natural blood flow that causes erections.

Struggling to quit their drug habits have many resources that they can use to find support. Several treatments, including behavioral therapy and group counseling, rehabilitation centers, as well as medical treatments that lower urges have been found to be effective. If you’re having trouble quitting on your own, or want to explore which option might be best for you, speak with your doctor or a counselor who will gladly lend a helping hand.

Stress and Your Sex Life

Most adults live with stress that they view as normal or unavoidable. While everyday stressors such as constant irritability in traffic, feeling overwhelmed at work, and anxiety over the future are common they can do long-term damage to the body and hinder sexual performance for men.

Consistent stress floods the body with adrenaline, disturbing the balance of other hormones like testosterone. This can negatively impact a man’s libido and result in sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction. Additionally, the long-term effects of chronic stress on the heart and individual sleep patterns can cause a cycle of physical and mental stress that distracts from the innate interest in, or even ability to have sex.

To lower stress, consider visiting a counselor, meditating, or journaling. While this may sound simple, these methods have been proven to lower heart rate and calm racing thoughts to relax. Try to find time every day where you can de-stress in order to look out for your overall health.

Many unhealthy lifestyle choices don’t just affect a man’s likelihood of developing diseases but can also affect his sexual performance. It’s critical to be vigilant over the different ways that your lifestyle choices can affect your overall health, including your sexual health.

Can exercise give me better erections?