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Erectile Dysfunction May Improve With Exercise

  • October 20, 2016

Men who have difficulty maintaining erections may benefit from exercise or physical activity of some sort, according to a new analysis that builds on previous evidence that exercise can help with this problem, Reuters reports.

Many men have trouble discussing problems they may have with erectile dysfunction. But, while you may find it embarrassing, it can also be a signal of other underlying health related conditions, such as heart disease. The physical function of an erection occurs between a complex interaction of nerves, muscle, emotions, hormones, brain and blood supply. When the arteries undergo changes related to atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, it is more difficult for the blood to pass through.

The process plays out first in the smaller arteries of the penis, before it reaches the larger arteries supplying the heart, kidneys and brain.

Also noteworthy is the fact that other studies have shown that men who habitually eat foods rich in flavonoids three times a week may have a reduced incidence of erectile dysfunction as they age. Some foods with higher amounts of flavonoids include gala apples, bananas, peaches, grapefruits, nectarines, berries and tea.

It also should be noted that not ALL cases of erectile dysfunction are due to physical illness. Since every erection begins in the brain, it’s important to address emotional concerns that may be getting in the way of your sexual enjoyment. Anxiety, defensiveness, fear and failure of communication are all destructive psychological forces that can take a heavy toll on your libido, whether you're a man or a woman, by acting as roadblocks to desire.