How To Cure Erectile Dysfunction Naturally And Permanently

How To Cure Erectile Dysfunction Naturally And Permanently

As a sexually active man, you’re probably looking for different ways to take your sexual performance to a new level and want to know How To Cure Erectile Dysfunction Naturally.

You’ve probably experienced some difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection, or you just want to get educated in order to be prepared for this scenario or possibly avoid it.

Regardless of the reason, you came to the right place.

Bearing in mind that ED is prevalent yet largely misunderstood by the general public it was vital to write an article that teaches men everything they need to know about this condition and solutions to overcome it.

Without further ado, let’s get it started.

How Does An Erection Occur?

We can’t discuss Erectile Dysfunction and solutions to overcome it without providing a deeper insight into the erectile function itself. A vast majority of men don’t really know how erections occur.

All they know is that they get turned on and here comes the erection, but the truth is that erection is a complicated process.

Before we move on to discussing cures for Erectile Dysfunction, we’re going to focus on erections themselves.

What Is An Erection?

An erection is defined as a physiological phenomenon wherein the penis becomes engorged, firm, and enlarged. During the erection, penile tissues and chambers get filled with blood. The result is a strong and rigid erection that you need for penetration and mind-blowing awesome sex.

While an erection may seem like a simple thing (you get aroused, and the penis becomes hard), it’s a result of a complex series of events that occur in your body.

Understanding Of Erections Through History

Did you ever wonder what happens in your body before you get an erection?

You probably did, but information found online is rather confusing. Even after you read the entire post, it’s impossible not to wonder what happens actually.

For centuries scholars, physicians, and philosophers tried to understand penile erection. Mystery and complexity of erections have become a subject of many debates.

For example, Hippocrates, a Greek physician (460BC – 370BC), declared that erections were generated vital spirits and pneuma (air, breath) that were flowing into a man’s penis.

Based on his knowledge, healthy erectile function depended on a balance among phlegm, blood, black bile, and yellow bile as well as four elements (earth, air, fire, and water).

In addition, Hippocrates believed that testes and penis were connected via fine cords and damage to them would negatively affect erectile capability.

Aristotle, a Greek philosopher (384BC-322BC), considered penile erection an involuntary movement which could be induced by imagination. According to Aristotle, the erectile response involved three mechanisms:

• Imagination
• Moisture (increases in genitals whose passages are filled with pneuma)
• Testicles (they act as a fulcrum or the weight behind testicles that could raise the penis)

Galen of Pergamum, a Greek physician, philosopher, and surgeon (130-210), deduced that the main cause of an erection was a specific quality of the corpora cavernosa or hollow nerves as he called them.

So as per Galen’s knowledge, these hollow nerves were able to attract the growing pneuma with the help of a complex network of capillaries, veins, and arteries in addition to the internal heat that pushes the penis out of the body.

Leonardo da Vinci, leading figure of Italian Renaissance (1452-1519), was one of the first scholars who studied and explored penis and its functions thoroughly.

Da Vinci didn’t agree with the theories that erections were a buildup of air. Instead, he focused on the physical aspects of the erectile response.

One of the most important scientists in the history explained that erection would require a significant amount of air not just from nerves, but the entire body and it was, simply, not possible to achieve an erection in such a manner.

What makes da Vinci’s work on this subject important is that he also mentioned erections have a lot to do with blood filling up penile tissues.

For hundreds of years, scientists tried to elaborate how erections really happen. In the 19^th century, scientists emphasized the role of the cerebrum, a large part of the brain, in the erectile response. Later, in the 20^th century or more precisely in 1933 William Henry Howell (1860-1945) of the Johns Hopkins University explained that erection occurred due to dilation of small arteries which led to swelling of corpora cavernosa which were filled with blood [1].

How Do Erections Happen?

As seen above, scientists explored the processes behind erection for centuries, and this function is still a subject of other studies. Although most of those theories before were elaborate each of them can be considered a stepping stone that led to the discovery of mechanisms of action that lead to an erection.

In order to understand the erectile response, we need to start from the anatomy of the penis. Your penis consists of:

• Corpora Cavernosa – two chambers running the length of the penis. They contain a maze of blood vessels shaped like cavernous spaces or a cylinder
• Urethra – channel for sperm and urine; it runs along underneath corpora cavernosa
• Shaft – the longest part of the penis
• Erectile Tissue – surrounds urethra, two primary arteries (one in each of corpora cavernosa), and several smaller veins and nerves
• Glans (head) – the ending part of the shaft
• Meatus – opening at the tip of the penis through which semen and urine are discharged

Your penis is flaccid most of the time, and from this state it reaches erection. Believe it or not,  your erectile response starts in your brain, not the penis itself. You see, everything starts with arousal that comes after stimulation.

Of course, this stimulation can occur in different ways such as visual, touching, erotic thought and many other ways.

During the process of sexual arousal, your nerves activate neurotransmitters or chemical messengers such as dopamine [2] which send the signals to corpora cavernosa to produce nitric oxide [3] so it can relax and dilate in order to allow blood to flow and fill up open spaces and chambers.

Increased blood flow creates a significant pressure in the corpora cavernosa which is why your penis becomes erect, hard, and strong.

To maintain an erection the membrane surrounding corpora cavernosa (tunica albuginea) traps blood in your penis. The erection stops when penile muscles contract in order to stop the inflow of blood and open outflow channels.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED), also referred to as male impotence, is one of the most common sexual dysfunctions. The condition is indicated by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection long and hard enough for pleasurable sexual intercourse.

Occasional or situation Erectile Dysfunction is not uncommon, and a vast majority of men will experience it at some point in their adult lives. When the problem becomes more frequent, it is a source of concern.

Men with erectile difficulties struggle to get their penis erect or to make it stay that way long enough, but they also experience other effects such as a lack of sexual desire.

While it is easy to assume that Erectile Problems means there is something wrong with the penis itself evidence confirms it’s a multifactorial disease [4] due to the involvement of various causes (see below).

Experiencing difficulties with erections doesn’t necessarily mean your sex life is over. Below, we’re going to explore the causes of this condition and show you how to cure erectile dysfunction naturally.

How Common Is Erectile Dysfunction?

When having troubles getting an erection a man usually feels like this problem could never happen to his friends. Somehow Erectile Dysfunction seems so frustrating, and we think it’s just us.

Wrong! And you could n’t be further from the truth!

Millions of men across the globe have this problem thus making ED one of the most common sexual dysfunctions in the world.

Various studies inspected the prevalence of Erectile Difficulties including the Massachusetts Male Aging Study which found that the prevalence of this condition is 52%. The condition tends to be age-dependent.

For instance, at the age of 40, about 40% of men have impotency issues and the prevalence increases by 10% for each decade, so about 70% of 70-year-old men have difficulties achieving an erection. Figures reveal that there are 617,715 new cases of Erectile Dysfunction in the United States each year [5].

Other studies showed that the prevalence of impotence among men ages 20 and older is 18.4%. These findings suggest that at least 18 million men in the US have erectile problems [6]. But more recent reports confirm that more than 30 million men in the country have Erectile Dysfunction [7].

These figures reveal that millions of men experience and will have to deal with erectile difficulties at one point or another in the United States.

This also means that on a global level the numbers go up and they confirm that you’re not alone, most men struggle with this problem, and this is nothing unusual.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors For Erectile Dysfunction?

Sometimes erection-related troubles come and go while in other instances they are more persistent. Regardless of the frequency of our erectile difficulties and problems, we always want to know why they happen in the first place.

• What Is The Reason Behind Erectile Dysfunction?

At the same time, we expect to see one specific cause that would explain the inability to achieve and maintain an erection, but it doesn’t work like that. After all, Erectile Dysfunction is a multidimensional sexual dysfunction that involves changes or alterations of any component involved in the erectile response including psychological, organic, or relational factors.

For many years it was believed that Erectile Dysfunction was a mainly psychogenic disorder, but current evidence confirms that over 80% of cases worldwide have an organic aetiology. Bearing in mind that erections require proper blood flow anything that affects it can contribute to Erection Problems.

Causes of Organic Erectile Dysfunction can be divided into two categories: endocrine and nonendocrine. In addition, Erectile Dysfunction is not only limited to sexual performance, but it can also act as a significant indicator of systemic endothelial dysfunction.

Erectile difficulties oftentimes precede cardiovascular events and can be considered an early marker to identify men who are at a higher risk of developing some cardiovascular condition [8].

It would be impossible to pinpoint a specific cause of Erectile Dysfunction primarily because in most cases a combination of different factors plays a role. In order to cure erectile dysfunction naturally and permanently one must learn as much as possible about the causes of this condition.

Below, you can learn different causes that weaken your erections and make it difficult to achieve them.

Physical Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction

• Low Testosterone

Testosterone is a primary male sex hormone and women have it too in smaller amounts. The primary site of testosterone production is in male testicles.

The hormone stimulates the production of sperm, influences sex drive, takes part in red blood cell production, and participates in many other functions in the body.

As men age, testosterone production slows down, and the process is exacerbated by various factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle. Low testosterone is a common occurrence, and it is indicated by a number of symptoms such as:

• Low libido
• Weight gain and fat accumulation
• Loss of muscle mass
• Hair loss
• Low semen volume
• Fatigue
• Mood changes
• Decreased bone mass

Consequences associated with low testosterone are numerous, and they also extend to erectile difficulties. The relationship between testosterone decline and Erectile Dysfunction is strong but complicated.

Androgen hormones play a major role in erectile response because there is a decrease in serum testosterone levels with ageing, which also marks the time period when the incidence of male sexual dysfunction increases.

Yet another proof that erections are androgen hormone dependent is the fact that men with hypogonadism have a notable reduction in the amplitude, frequency, and rigidity of their erections [9].

• Poor Blood Flow

As seen above, in order to achieve erection blood needs to fill penile tissues and chambers. Therefore, problems with blood flow can negatively affect your erection and make it difficult for you to achieve or maintain an erection.

For example, lower levels of nitric oxide have been associated with Erectile Dysfunction [10]. Nitric oxide is a molecule naturally produced in the body. This particular molecule acts as a vasodilator, i.e., it works to dilate blood vessels to allow blood to flow properly.

Remember, dilation of blood vessels in the penis is required for erection. That’s why lower levels of nitric oxide can impair blood flow and thereby cause Erectile Dysfunction.

Problems with nitric oxide can contribute to atherosclerosis [11], a condition wherein plaque builds up inside the arteries. The plaque is, basically, a fatty deposit made of cholesterol.

Atherosclerosis restricts blood flow and puts an affected person at a higher risk of cardiovascular events such as heart disease and stroke.

Due to its potential to reduce the blood flow, atherosclerosis is strongly associated with ED [12]. Many things can lead to atherosclerosis including high cholesterol.

• Heart Disease

According to the CDC (centre of disease control), about 610,000 die of heart disease in the US each year. More precisely, one in four people dies due to heart disease. What’s more, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women.

The most prevalent type of heart disease is coronary heart disease (CHD) associated with 370,000 deaths annually. Estimates show that 735,000 Americans have a heart attack every year [13].

Heart disease and Erectile Dysfunction can sometimes go hand in hand. Men, especially younger guys, with ED and without cardiac symptoms have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease [14]. The same goes the other way too. Guys with some form of heart condition are more likely to deal with problems in obtaining quality erections.

The underlying cause isn’t so complicated; it comes down to poor blood flow. Heart disease is linked with weaker blood flow meaning your penile tissues and chambers won’t get much-needed blood for engorgement either.

Basically, everything that’s bad for your heart is also bad for your penis and vice versa.

• Diabetes Type 1 and Type 2

The term diabetes refers to metabolic disorders that affect the way the body uses blood sugar or glucose. You see, glucose is crucial to human health because it is a vital source of energy for cells.

According to the American Diabetes Association, about 34.8 million Americans in 2018 had diabetes. About 1.5 million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed each year [15].

Diabetes puts us at a higher risk of many complications, but what many people don’t know is that it can also be a major cause behind Erectile Dysfunction.

More than half of men with diabetes have Erectile Dysfunction. More precisely, diabetic men are 3.5 times more likely to get Erection Problems compared to healthy counterparts [16]. Of course, it all comes down to the fact that diabetes affects blood flow and your nerves.

• Smoking

Smoking is an unhealthy habit that most people don’t think is bad enough to ditch it. The CDC reports that about 38 million Americans smoke.

The prevalence of this bad habit is high among people with lower education, adults ages 25 to 64, persons with serious psychological distress, and among men [17].

Smoking puts you at a higher risk of lung cancer, accelerates the ageing process, and it is strongly associated with a number of other health problems.

Your bad habit can also be the reason why you can’t get it up.

Evidence confirms that smoking worsens erectile function through numerous mechanisms out of which nitric oxide depletion [18] is the most important.

Basically, smoking narrows or constricts your blood vessels and doesn’t allow blood to flow toward penile tissues and chambers freely. Without dilation of blood vessels, your penis can’t get engorged.

Next time you feel like having a cigarette just think about what it can do to your body and sex life.

Not really worth it, is it?

• Overweight And Obesity

Millions of people around the globe are overweight or obese. Today excess weight is even justified by many and glorified, but that’s not the healthiest approach to deal with this problem.

Carrying excess weight puts you at a higher risk of heart disease, various cancers, early death, osteoarthritis, diabetes, and many other conditions.

Overweight and obesity aren’t about appearance, but a person’s general health and wellbeing. Being overweight also puts you at a higher risk of many sexual dysfunctions including ED.

In the United States alone obesity is responsible for 8 million cases of Erectile Dysfunction [19] which is a staggering number.

The relationship between overweight/obesity and impotence needs to be elucidated further, but it is assumed that multiple factors are involved. For example, excess weight is also associated with lower testosterone.

As seen above, low-T is one of the physiological causes of male impotence. At the same time, being overweight or obese puts you at a higher risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease, and diabetes all of which are also strongly associated with Erectile Dysfunction.

• Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease is a unique condition indicated by the formation of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis making it appear curved. The disease can also lead to painful erections.

The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is poorly understood, but it is highly likely that a combination of different factors plays a role.

The generally accepted idea is that Peyronie’s disease is mainly caused by a repeated injury to the penis during sexual activity, sports, or some other types of an accident.

During the healing process scar tissue starts forming in an unorganized fashion which may lead to the development of a curvature.

Men with Peyronie’s disease often experience Erectile Dysfunction, and it could be due to various causes. For example, the plaques may weaken smooth muscle in the penis thus making erections more difficult to occur.

Also, disorganized scar tissue may impair blood flow to the penis or cause the blood to leave penis too quickly. Additionally, men with Peyronie’s disease may feel depressed about the appearance of their penis and, as you’ll see below, depression can also contribute to problems in obtaining an erection.

Other Physical Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction

Besides the above-mentioned physical causes that contribute to Erectile Dysfunction, there are many others that can impair erectile function. They include:

• Sleep disorders
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease
• Natural ageing process
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Metabolic syndrome
• Certain medications
• Treatment for enlarged prostate and prostate cancer
• Surgeries that treat conditions in the spinal cord and pelvic area
• Injuries
• Radiation therapy to the pelvic region

Psychological Causes

• Stress

Stress is, basically, the body’s reaction to any change that requires an adjustment or response. It is a perfectly natural response, and we can’t really avoid it. Sure, we always promise to ourselves we’d do our best to avoid stress, but that doesn’t happen.

The reason is simple; that’s how our body reacts to some situations. Although it is a natural response, it can lead to major problems.

How?

Sometimes we don’t do anything about stress and wait for it to go away on its own. Newsflash; it won’t disappear on its own at all! Modern lifestyle indicated by a hectic schedule, lack of time for yourself, tons of things to do, and difficulty juggling between home and work can be a huge source of stress.

Let’s not forget family or relationship drama! When left unresolved stress just piles on, accumulates, and the more you ignore it, the worse it gets.

Unmanaged stress can impair your sleep, contribute to weight gain, negatively affect productivity, speed up the ageing process, and induce many other negative effects that affect your quality of life.

What many men fail to acknowledge is that stress can make them struggle with ED. Erectile difficulties aren’t just a physical problem, as established before, but a psychological one too.

Stress can affect the mental and emotional health of a man but also induce physical changes all of which can be doom to your erectile function.

When something is stressing you out, it’s difficult to stop thinking about it just like that. The more you focus on stress, the less time you spend concentrating on the sexual activity, arousal, and everything that comes with it.

In addition, stress can affect how the brain signals the body’s physical response. In this case, stress interrupts how your brain sends messages to the penis to allow blood to flow to tissues and chambers.

• Anxiety And Depression

Anxiety and depression are widely prevalent mental health illnesses that affect millions of people worldwide. Anxiety is not a single disease, but a term that refers to several disorders that are indicated by nervousness, irritability, apprehension, fear, and worrying.

These particular disorders affect the way a person behaves, and they may cause physical symptoms too.

Depression, on the other hand, is a common and very serious mental illness indicated by a persistent feeling of sadness and symptoms such as feelings of worthlessness and helplessness, suicidal thoughts and tendencies, appetite changes, just to name a few.

Rates of depression are on the rise and although a serious condition it’s manageable.

Both anxiety and depression affect a man’s quality of life, and besides psychological, they also induce physical changes in the body, and the erection-related problem is one of them.

Evidence confirms that both anxiety and depression can lead to Erectile Dysfunction, even in young men [20]. Depression causes an imbalance of brain chemicals thus decreasing your libido and impairing the brain signalling that is necessary for erections.

It’s not uncommon for men to experience performance anxiety or the overwhelming fear that they may not live up to the partner’s expectations.

Sometimes guys are scared of experiencing problems during sex that their fear consumes them and they can’t even start performing. Performance anxiety is also associated with depression, but it’s a major cause of Erectile Dysfunction too [21].

• Relationship Problems

Two people who love each other are also bound to argue and go through bad times. Some couples resolve their problems immediately while others do not. Relationship problems can be a major cause of problem in obtaining good quality erections in men.

That’s because you’re focusing on the problem and it keeps you away from getting aroused and having great sex.

• Low self-Esteem And Confidence

Women are not the only ones who pay a lot of attention to their appearance, and men are the same. Even though we don’t want to admit it, but our appearance is a major source of confidence (together with the sexual performance of course).

Confidence is easy to shake and decrease especially if we gain weight or lose muscle mass. Men aren’t immune to the negative body image and lack of confidence.

Decreased confidence can contribute to stress and even induce Erectile Dysfunction. It’s simple, you’re feeling subconscious about your appearance, and it lowers your sex drive. You don’t feel like having sex, so there’s no arousal and subsequent erection.

How Is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed?

The last thing you want is to see the doctor for erectile difficulties, but it should still be an option in cases when the problem is persistent.

Make sure you provide thorough information to the doctor about the frequency of erectile difficulties, when you started experiencing them, and other important stuff that could help the physician understand the matter more effectively.

Your doctor will probably ask you questions about health so make sure you give honest answers. Due to the fact that Erectile Dysfunction is associated with underlying conditions like diabetes and heart disease your doctor may order some tests such as:

• Blood Tests – to check for the signs of diabetes, heart disease, low testosterone, and other health conditions
• Physical Exam – careful and thorough examination of the penis, testicles, and nerve sensation in the genital area
• Urinalysis – to look for signs of diabetes and other health conditions
• Ultrasound – allows the physician to see whether you have blood flow problems
• Psychological Exam – the doctor asks a series of questions to screen for anxiety, depression, and other psychological factors that could contribute to ED

How Doctors Treat Erectile Dysfunction?

Once the doctor diagnoses ED, he (or she) will recommend a suitable treatment. Now, before you start thinking “I’m here to learn how to Cure Erectile Dysfunction Naturally And Permanently” keep in mind, it’s still important to get informed about other available treatments.

Not only does it help you understand that Erectile Dysfunction is, indeed, a manageable problem but it also emphasizes the simplicity, safety, and convenience of the natural approach.

So, what are the most common treatment options that doctors recommend to their patients with Erectile Dysfunction? These include:

• Alprostadil Self-Injection – This is probably the method that most men will want to avoid at all costs. Basically, you need to take an injection and insert the fine needle into the side or base of your penis. Seriously! Each injection contains a dosage that is necessary to induce a boner that lasts for an hour or so.

This method also comes with certain side effects such as priapism or prolonged erection, mild bleeding from an injection, formation of the fibrous tissue at the injection site

• Alprostadil Urethral suppository – here’s yet another uncomfortable treatment option for men with ED. While it doesn’t involve needles, you do need to insert something into your penis.

To be more precise, the treatment strategy involves placing a tiny suppository inside penis straight into the urethra. In order to make it happen, the medication comes with an applicator that allows you to insert the suppository where it is needed.

About 10 minutes after inserting the suppository you’ll get an erection which lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. Adverse reactions linked to this treatment method include the formation of the fibrous tissue inside the penis, minor bleeding in the urethra, and pain

• Oral Medications – the most common oral medications are PDE5 inhibitors. PDE5 or phosphodiesterase type 5 is an enzyme that destroys cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) which is responsible for erection by affecting the amount of blood that blood vessels deliver and remove from the penis.

By blocking cGMP, PDE5 causes erectile troubles. On the other hand, PDE5 inhibitors block this enzyme and allow blood to flow properly.

The most popular PDE5 inhibitor is sildenafil (Viagra), but others include tadalafil (Adcirca, Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn), and avanafil (Stendra).

These medications may seem like perfect solutions for Erectile Dysfunction, but they are only meant to be used for short-term due to high risk of side effects. It’s needless to mention they are not safe for men with heart problems

• Penile Implant – this ED treatment option involves a surgical procedure during which the surgeon places devices into both sides of the penis. Implants are the last resort and doctors only recommend them when other treatment options prove to be ineffective
• Penis Pump – basically, this is a hollow tube with a battery- or hand-powered pump that promises men they will have strong erections. To use it, you need to place the tube over your penis and pump sucks out the air inside that tube.

As a result, blood rushes to the penis and gives you an erection. Once the erection is achieved, you need to place a tension ring around the base of the penis to keep it engorged and hard. After the intercourse, the ring is removed, of course

• Testosterone Replacement – recommended to men whose Erectile Dysfunction is a result of low testosterone and in most cases, it is considered the first option before other treatment measures are proposed
• Treatment Of The Underlying Health Problem – in cases when the cause of Erectile Dysfunction is a health condition such as diabetes then treatment or management of that health problem could also help improve strength and rigidity of your erections

A Guide On How To Cure Erectile Dysfunction Naturally And Permanently

As seen above, different management options are at your disposal and they promise you’ll get rid of Erectile problems fast. However, all those methods come with the certain risk of side effects and they aren’t, actually, the cheapest solutions.

Let’s not forget one important thing – each treatment method mentioned above is focused on providing you with the strong erection i.e., they mask the symptoms.

Erectile struggles are always a sign of some other health problem, they occur due to a combination of different factors, and the best way to manage them successfully is to address the root causes.

You see, Erectile Dysfunction is a consequence and the only way to resolve it is to be concerned about the causes that led to it. That’s why the natural approach is always the best. It’s cost-effective, safe, convenient, and easy to follow.

Here comes the moment you’ve been waiting for since the moment you clicked to read the article – the best solutions that will help you cure erectile dysfunction naturally and permanently are listed below.

• Lose Some Weight

Being overweight or obese has a negative impact on your overall health, quality of life, and sexual function. Let’s not forget that excess weight can affect your confidence and cause negative body image.

Therefore, the first thing you need to do in order to improve the quality of your erections is to decide to slim down or keep weight in a healthy range.

A study that involved older men with type 2 diabetes found that weight loss improved their erectile function [22].

A different study revealed that more than one-third of obese men with problems getting a good quality erection were able to cure this problem by losing weight and making other necessary lifestyle changes [23].

Weight loss can improve your erectile function in multiple ways. First, it can support hormonal balance which is important for an erectile response. Second, weight loss supports heart health, blood flow, and other physiological aspects of an erection.

Third, healthy weight has a favourable impact on your mind, boosts your confidence which is also crucial for strong erections.

Regardless of how much you weigh at the moment, it’s possible to slim down and reach your target body goal. Avoid quick fixes and magical solutions that promise you’ll slim down easily in a short period of time.

Instead, commit to a healthy lifestyle and strive to make necessary adjustments that will help you not only lose weight but keep it off. Of course, the primary lifestyle modifications involve diet and exercise.

• Exercise Regularly

Most of us have replaced physical activity with lazy days on the sofa. Instead of going to the store we order everything online. We no longer use stairs but escalators and elevators. Basically, we’ve made our lives more convenient, but don’t do anything to make it healthier.

Physical activity is vital for our health and erectile response which is why you should avoid a sedentary lifestyle.

A review of seven studies with a total of 478 participants found that moderate intense physical activity & exercise interventions had the effect of improving a subjects self-reported Erectile Dysfunction, with particular note that aerobic exercise being the most effective [24].

Regular exercise helps because it promotes weight loss and aids weight management. At the same time, physical activity supports hormone balance and promotes the production of testosterone.

Blood flow also improves thus making it easier for the penis to get engorged. Additionally, exercise also supports proper brain signalling and improves heart health. In other words, regular exercise can help you with different aspects of Erectile Dysfunction including your confidence and body image.

Find an activity you really like and do it regularly because that way you’re more likely to stick to it. There is no need to spend hours in the gym. Daily workouts of 30-45 minutes will do the trick too.

Remember to stay active during the day by walking more and avoiding being sedentary for prolonged periods.

• Get Enough Sleep

How much sleep do you get each night? Chances are you’re not actually satisfied with the quantity of the good night’s rest and wish you could sleep more. You’re not alone. We have become a sleep-deprived society, and it’s a major source of concern.

Lack of sleep increases stress levels, lowers testosterone [25], decreases productivity, speeds up the ageing process, depletes energy levels, and so much more. That’s why an important strategy that can help you cure erectile dysfunction naturally is to get enough sleep finally.

Proper sleep supports testosterone balance, promotes mental health, boosts energy levels, and it can also promote weight management, heart health, and overall quality of life.

Plus, when you’re well-rested, your libido is higher, and arousal doesn’t have obstacles. All these things are important for overcoming Erectile Dysfunction and getting strong erections.

Do bear in mind that it is not just about getting about eight hours of sleep a night. For the best effects, you need to establish a regular sleep pattern which involves having the same bedtime every night and to wake up every morning at the same time as well.

You’ll notice the difference in your erectile response once you start getting enough sleep.

To fall asleep easily try to eliminate all distractions such as TV, tablet, and phone. Make your bedroom a relaxing environment where you’ll be able to rest properly and make sure your bed is comfortable.

• Eat A Healthy And Well-Balanced Diet

The food you eat plays a significant role in your overall health including erectile function. If you have a habit of eating an unhealthy diet, fast food, too much sugar, heavily processed foods, it’s time to make some changes.

Junk food and other similar meals are laden with unhealthy fats which can lead to high cholesterol and atherosclerosis.

It’s needless to mention those foods don’t have a decent nutritional value meaning your body is unable to obtain much-needed vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to function properly.

Intake of a well-balanced will help you overcome Erectile Dysfunction in different ways.

A healthy diet supports weight loss, boosts energy levels, promotes management of underlying health conditions, and increases levels of nitric oxide which is vital for erections.

It’s also important to mention that some foods can also promote testosterone production. For instance, scientists have found that consumption of watermelon can increase levels of citrulline which helps relax blood flow and allows men to achieve stronger erections [26].

Basically, watermelon works the same way as Viagra, but it’s natural and doesn’t put your health at risk.

Here are examples of foods you should include in your diet in order to manage your Erectile Dysfunction effectively:

• Leafy Greens And Beets – they improve blood flow thanks to the high concentration of nitrates which act as vasodilators
• Dark Chocolate – flavonoids in dark chocolate improve blood flow, boost libido, and promote your overall health
• Pistachios – abundant in l-arginine which promotes healthy nitric oxide levels and allows blood vessels to dilate and relax
• Oysters And Other Shellfish – rich in zinc, oysters boost testosterone levels and promote erectile response. It’s needless to mention oysters are a well-known aphrodisiac
• Tomatoes – they contain lycopene, a phytonutrient that exhibits strong antioxidant effects and promotes blood circulation
• Other Foods: grass-fed red meat, cayenne pepper, red wine (in moderation i.e. a glass), pomegranate juice, grape juice, salmon and other fatty fish, olive oil

Manage Your Stress Levels

Stress is your nemesis, an enemy you cannot and should not ignore. Instead of waiting for stress to go away on its own, it’s more practical to be proactive and learn how to manage it properly. Besides the ED itself, a great reason to manage stress is cortisol.

Stress hormone cortisol has a negative influence of testosterone. Two hormones basically each other. Increased levels of one hormone decrease the concentration of the other and vice versa [27].

Stress, marked by high cortisol levels, lowers testosterone thus making a further impact on strength and quality of your erections.

Stress management is an effective strategy for the management of Erectile Dysfunction [28]. In addition to the stronger erectile response, stress management supports hormone balance, weight management, and libido.

The beauty of this approach is that you can do everything you want. Take a few moments to think about activities that you find relaxing and strive to do them on a daily or weekly basis depending on your needs.

Some stress management techniques involve:

• Deep breathing
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Get proper sleep
• Identify triggers that increase stress levels and strive to avoid them
• Manage your time more effectively
• Make time for hobbies
• Read a book
• Listen to music
• Sign up for a gym class, boxing, anything that gets you fit and in shape

• Do Kegels For Men

When the term “Kegel exercise” comes to mind we immediately think of exercises that women do to keep their vagina tight and flexible.

That’s true, but ladies aren’t the only ones who can benefit from Kegels, they are incredibly beneficial for men too.

Kegel exercises are defined as simple clench and release exercises that strengthen pelvic floor area. The primary function of Kegels for men is that they help restore bladder control after prostate surgery, but they can do so much more.

A growing body of evidence confirms that pelvic floor exercises such as Kegels are effective in the management of Erectile Dysfunction [29]. What makes Kegels so amazing is that they can also help men who ejaculate prematurely [30].

In order to do Kegels, you need to identify pelvic floor muscles first and the easiest way to do that is to try and stop urine midstream. Muscles you use to make it happen are pelvic floor muscles.

Now that you have identified pelvic floor muscles you can start doing the exercise. Contract the muscles and hold for a few seconds prior to releasing.

Repeat the process.

Start small first and gradually, as you get used to the certain duration of contractions, increase the contraction length. Try to do 10 to 20 reps in a row several times a day.

• Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the worst things you can do to your body and this includes penis too. Bearing in mind that smoking is associated with ED, you should definitely consider quitting this bad habit.

Ditching cigarettes fits perfectly into the strategy to overcome Erectile Dysfunction in a natural manner and it can make you a healthier and happier man.

The problem occurs when men believe they won’t be able to quit smoking, especially if they’ve been active smokers for many years. Of course, it’s not easy to quit smoking but at the same time, it is not impossible either.

Below, you can see some valuable tips that will help you cease this unhealthy habit successfully:

• Get Informed – you’ll find it easier to quit smoking when you’re informed about all the dangers that come with it
• Use NRTs – they can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms
• Seek Behavioral Support – try counseling services, self-help materials, and support services that will help you get through the beginning (which is always the hardest part) more easily
• Relax – one reason people is that nicotine helps them relax. This means that once you quit smoking you’ll have to find a new way to unwind. Find a way to relax (it can be your stress management method) that will help you get some mental rest without having to take a cigarette
• Avoid situations, locations, and people and everything else that triggers your cigarette-smoking habit

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine wherein needles are inserted into specific points in the body to manipulate the flow of energy or Qi.

As an important part of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been around for centuries and proves to be highly beneficial. It’s not just relaxation that acupuncture provides, but also better health and erectile function.

Before you start thinking acupuncture for Erectile Dysfunction is some marketing hoax you’ll be happy to know that science has confirmed its positive effects. One study found that two-thirds of participants experienced improved erections and sufficient rigidity thanks to acupuncture [31].

Although it is not clear how acupuncture works it’s highly like that improved blood flow plays a role together with improved mental health.

Of course, if you’re considering acupuncture then make sure you see a certified acupuncturist rather than some random dude who has no license and necessary credentials.

• Work On Your Relationship Problems

Relationships go through good times and bad times, highs and lows, ups and downs. To some people, it’s easier to sweep problems under the rug and avoid to address them but that’s the wrong approach.

You can try to tiptoe around relationship problems all you want, but that won’t do much. Sooner or later those same issues will emerge and become even worse. If you have relationship problems that contribute to Erectile Dysfunction then try to address them together with your partner.

Make your relationship healthier and happier through open communication. Feel free to express yourself and talk about your concerns and allow your significant other to do the same.

When problems occur work on them immediately. The longer you wait to address them the worse it gets. They become this huge cloud that follows you wherever you go. Let’s avoid that, shall we?

Healthy communication between two people is vital for relationship success and it is also crucial for sexual function. If two people aren’t willing or able to work on their problems then their sex life will suffer too and this also includes your ability to get it up.

Therefore, be proactive in your relationship, don’t avoid problems, address them head-on. You’ll notice an improvement in your Erectile Dysfunction when all your issues are successfully resolved.

• Avoid High Blood Pressure And High Cholesterol

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common problem indicated by long-term force of blood against the artery walls that is high enough to cause problems eventually.

High blood pressure, just like high cholesterol, is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis and heart disease. As mentioned above, heart disease and atherosclerosis can also contribute to Erectile Dysfunction meaning it is crucial to managing blood pressure and cholesterol especially as you’re getting older.

Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels within a healthy range allow you to improve blood flow which is important for an erectile response.

Below, you can see different ways to support your blood pressure and healthy cholesterol levels:

• Eat a healthy diet
• Lose weight
• Exercise regularly
• Reduce sodium in your diet
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Quit smoking
• Eliminate trans fats from your diet
• Consume foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids
• Increase fibre consumption

Avoid Risky Sex

Wild sex is more exciting than monotonous and robotic intercourse, but you should still be cautious. You see, sometimes penile injuries sustained during risky sexual intercourse can be a cause of Erectile Dysfunction.

Ideally, you should have an exciting sex life that chases away monotony and keeps the spark alive, but at the same time, you should avoid crossing all the limits that would result in injuries. Take some time to think about your sex life and positions you try with your partner.

Identify those that you don’t find comfortable or beneficial for your erections and avoid them. You can also consult your doctor about this subject and see what position they would recommend.

• Go Easy On The Porn

Both men and women love porn although ladies are more reluctant to admit it. To most men, porn is entertainment, something you just watch to pass the time or when you masturbate. However, to some men porn is more than that.

They watch pornographic content regularly thinking it’s perfectly harmless, but the reality is much different. Studies have found that terminating internet pornography use is sometimes sufficient to reverse the negative effects associated with various sexual dysfunctions [32].

Therefore, a useful strategy to overcome Erectile Dysfunction is to try to watch less porn than you usually do. When you think about it closely this isn’t such a shocker. I am sure you have also heard of the term “Porn Induced Erectile Dysfunction”.

Porn makes people have unrealistic expectations regarding their partner’s appearance, sexual activities, and basically everything else.

Real life doesn’t match those expectations and it is followed by disappointment which kills your libido and arousal meaning your penis doesn’t get engorged that easily or erection weakens too fast.

• Try Herbal Supplements For A Testosterone Boost

Herbal supplements are widely popular nowadays. You can get a supplement for just about anything ranging from joint health to brain power.

Probably the most popular types of dietary supplements are those that are created specifically to help address low testosterone and erectile dysfunction.

What makes these products useful is their natural formula, low risk of side effects, and outstanding and proven efficacy. They fit perfectly into a natural or holistic approach toward stronger erectile response.

Before we name different types of herbal supplements to look for it’s important to emphasize the importance of thorough research.

Don’t buy the first product you see in the drugstore or online.

Instead, take several items into consideration and go for the one that matches your needs and preferences the most.

Make sure the brand is reliable, offers a money back guarantee, and that their products are based on research.

Not all dietary supplements are equal, some of them are ineffective so you need to think twice before deciding which one to buy. It’s recommended to go for the brands that grow their own plants or they source them from reliable places.

Of course, it’s even better when the company provides detailed insight into the efficacy of the product to show you all the benefits you can obtain with regular use.

Now, let’s see how to cure erectile dysfunction naturally and permanently with the help of carefully chosen herbs and plants.

• Horny Goat Weed

Epimedium or horny goat weed is a flowering plant in the Berberidaceae family which contains more than 700 identified species including perennial herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees. Horny goat weed is also known as fairy wings, barrenwort, and bishop’s hat.

The plant is native to China where it had a special place in traditional medicine.

The most popular use of horny goat weed is to get stronger and harder erections. Everything started back centuries ago when a shepherd noticed his sheep and goats were more sexually active after they ate specific shrub.

He went to the physician and scholar and told him everything. Ever since then, horny goat weed has become an important part of alternative and holistic approach toward good health and wellbeing.

Horny goat weed contains icariin, a compound that inhibits the activity of the PDE5 in order to dilate blood vessels and give you strong erections. In other words, the plant works like Viagra but it’s safe to use.

One study found that rats that were treated with horny goat weed exhibited an improved erectile function [33].

Not only does horny goat weed helps address Erectile Dysfunction, but it also supports the production of testosterone, increases libido, and boosts your energy levels as well as muscular strength.

Plus, horny goat weed also helps men with depression. Basically, this wonderful plant can help men who suffer from ED caused by different factors.

• Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is one of the most valuable plants in Ayurvedic medicine. For centuries this herb has been used in Ayurveda to treat different health problems and it continues to this day.

Ashwagandha is one of the most popular and widely used ingredients in testosterone boosters and ED supplements. The plant acts as an adaptogen i.e. it helps the body tackle stress effectively.

Numerous studies have confirmed that supplementation with ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels [34]. As you already know high cortisol levels are bad news for testosterone so by decreasing stress ashwagandha can aid testosterone production too.

Supplementation with ashwagandha improves fertility and raises testosterone levels [35], studies show. By boosting testosterone production and allowing the body to manage stress more effectively, ashwagandha also aids management of Erectile Dysfunction.

Now you know that the inclusion of this plant in the formula of many Erectile Dysfunction supplements is not a coincidence. Regular intake of ashwagandha supplements also increases muscle mass and strength.

This leads to more energy and endurance both of which are absolutely crucial for sexual performance and strong erections. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of ashwagandha make it a perfect tonic for longer life.

Now it’s important to mention that oxidative stress can cause Erectile Dysfunction too [36] so antioxidant effects of Ashwagandha can be considered yet another mechanism through which this plant can give you stronger erections.

 

 

• Pine Pollen

Pine pollen is, essentially, pollen obtained from male cones of the pine tree. Pine is an evergreen tree that contains long, needle-shaped leaves. These trees have both male and female cones.

Pine pollen is brownish or yellowish in colour and it is abundant in various nutrients that make it a sort of a superfood. For example, pine pollen contains vitamin D, phyto-androgens (plant forms of male sex hormones), 18 amino acids, vitamins, minerals.

The Benefits one can obtain through pine pollen supplementation are numerous including a slowed aging process, stronger immune system, brain health, anti-inflammatory properties, pain-relieving effects, energy boost, body detox, and many others.

So how does pine pollen manage Erectile Dysfunction? High phyto-androgens content plays the role here.

Regular supplementation of pine pollen powder or tincture supports hormone balance and helps the body produce testosterone. Since an important cause of ED is low testosterone then it becomes clear why pine pollen can help you get strong and hard erections.

In addition, pine pollen supplements are a great source of antioxidants which combat oxidative stress and they also exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. Combined together, all these benefits make pine pollen an effective tool against weak erections.

It’s possible to find pine pollen in the form of capsules, powder, and tincture. Tinctures work fast because by bypass the digestive system but they contain lower amounts of vitamins and minerals.

On the other hand, capsules take longer to work because the body needs to break them down and absorb them but they contain lower amounts of phyto-androgens. That’s why most people take a combination of the two.

• Tongkat Ali

Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia and longjack, is a flowering plant native to regions in Indonesia and Malaysia. The plant is also found in some areas of Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, and India.

Like other plants on this list, Tongkat Ali is also a popular ingredient in dietary supplements and for a good reason – it works! Regular intake of Tongkat Ali can boost your testosterone production in an entirely natural manner.

A study whose findings were published in the Andrologia journal revealed that supplementation with Tongkat Ali had been shown to restore serum testosterone levels and it improves sexual health [37].

Thanks to a testosterone boost, Tongkat Ali has the amazing ability to increase libido and help manage premature ejaculation. Plus, studies also confirm that the herbal extract of Tongkat Ali exhibits a clinical effect on erectile function [38].

Regular intake of Tongkat Ali supplements can manage depression effectively, help patients regulate diabetes, boost energy levels, promote fertility and weight loss. In other words, this amazing plant can help you manage Erectile Dysfunction and different factors that lead to this common sexual dysfunction.

• Cistanche

Cistanche is a holoparasitic desert plant that doesn’t have chlorophyll and it obtains nutrients and water from other plants.

This interesting plant is native to China and, like hundreds of other plants and herbs, it was used in traditional Chinese medicine to address various health concerns. Although the plant has been around for hundreds or even thousands of years limited research was done on this subject.

Studies involving this plant are scarce, the evidence is lacking, but long use speaks for itself. The plant survived all those years and its use continues to this day which can only mean it does work.

While science still has some catching up to do, current evidence is promising and it confirms that cistanche can, indeed, facilitate erectile response [39].

Cistanche improves your erections by increasing the production of nitric oxide, which is vital for strong erections. Regular supplementation with cistanche fights against fatigue and improves your memory while strengthening the immune system thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential.

• Blue Vervain

Verbena hastata or blue vervain is a flowering plant in the vervain family. The plant is usually found in North America, Europe, China, and other regions. This particular flowering plant has a long and prolific history.

It was used by ancient Romans, druids, ancient Egyptians, and others. In fact, some Egyptian myths mention blue vervain as it was believed that these plants sprung when the goddess Isis cried while mourning the death of her brother and husband Osiris.

Even though blue vervain isn’t one of the most popular dietary supplements just yet there is no reason why it won’t become a part of that list.

Medicinal uses of this plant are numerous and they include improved sleep, stress and anxiety management, body detox, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, pain-relieving properties, heart health, among others.

The truth is that blue vervain can help men with Erectile Dysfunction, but its effects are indirect. Nope, this isn’t a bad thing, but a good one. Instead of masking your symptoms like some prescription drugs, blue vervain takes care of root causes of Erectile Difficulties and helps you get stronger erections by improving your overall health and quality of life.

Each health benefit of blue vervain mentioned above also serves as a potential mechanism of action through which it benefits men with sexual problems.

• Shilajit

Shilajit is not a plant per se, but a sticky tar-like substance that is formed by the slow decomposition of plants and herbs. The entire process takes several centuries.

The substance is native to the Himalayas so the best way to make sure your supplement will work is to see whether the manufacturer sourced it from that marvelous place first.

Don’t let the appearance fool you, shilajit is nutritious which explains why it proves so many health benefits. Shilajit contains 85 minerals in ionic form, fulvic and humic acids, and many others. Shilajit works to relax corpora cavernosa [40] and, thereby, help you manage erection problems

Regular intake of shilajit also boosts testosterone production. The substance can be absorbed into your testes where it decreases oxidative damage. That way, it promotes not only the healthy production of testosterone but also supports male fertility.

The tar-like substance can help users lose weight and keep it off, and it provides you with more energy. Although more studies are needed to elucidate all the effects of shilajit one thing is for sure – men with Erectile Dysfunction can benefit from supplementation of shilajit resin or powder in more ways than one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• If A Man Suspects He Has Erectile Dysfunction When Is The Right Time To Consult The Doctor?

A vast majority of men will deal with some form of ED at some point in their lives. However, that doesn’t mean their condition is permanent. In some cases, men struggle to get an erection or to maintain it long (and hard) enough for great sex.

Next time they have no such difficulty.

That being said, sometimes the problem is persistent and an affected man experiences problems with erections during every intercourse. As seen throughout this post, this can happen due to a number of reasons.

Most men try to delay visits to the doctor as long as they can. If you feel like ED is becoming persistent or that you struggle with erections quite often, then it’s good to see the doctor.

• Is Erectile Dysfunction A Normal Part Of The Ageing Process?

Due to the fact that erectile problems are more common among older men, it’s easy to assume it’s a normal part of the ageing process.

The truth is that Erectile Dysfunction is not a normal part of ageing. Although it is true that older gentlemen need more stimulation, in the form of touching and stroking, to get an erection they should still be able to enjoy sex.

Many older men don’t have ED which only confirms that multiple factors contribute to this condition.

• Can Younger Men Get Erectile Dysfunction?

The term Erectile Dysfunction immediately makes us think of some older guy who can’t get it up. While older men are, indeed, more susceptible to erection problems younger men can develop this problem as well. Unhealthy lifestyle, problems in relationships, and other factors increase the rates of impotence among men, including younger guys.

• Does Erectile Dysfunction Go Away On Its Own?

Yes and no. The problem can go away on its own in situations when it is caused by injuries or stressful situations. Once stress and anxiety go away so does Erectile Dysfunction.

That being said, in some cases Erectile Difficulties is more serious and requires a proactive approach that involves methods described above in the article.

• Is Erectile Dysfunction Dangerous?

Let’s be honest, Erectile Dysfunction is not a dangerous condition on its own and you won’t die just because you’re experiencing difficulties getting or maintaining an erection. Nonetheless, sexual dysfunction can be a warning sign that says something is wrong in your body.

How?

Throughout this article, you’ve had the opportunity to learn more about ED and its causes. You’ve seen that both physical and psychological factors contribute to ED. Some conditions such as heart disease and diabetes are connected with your erectile function.

Therefore, problems with erections could indicate something is wrong so it’s always better to manage it right on time and see your doctor regularly for a physical exam.

• Can I take Testosterone Injections To Manage Erectile Dysfunction Successfully?

If you are experiencing weaker erections due to low testosterone, then boosting levels of this hormone can help you overcome this problem.

But, if your testosterone levels are normal then taking more won’t help manage ED. Instead, taking more testosterone could cause further issues. To be on the safe side, see the doctor get your testosterone levels checked.

• Once You Suffer Erectile Dysfunction You’ll Always Struggle With This Problem, Right?

Every man’s nightmare is to become incapable of having good mind-blowing sex due to Erectile Dysfunction (or some other causes). A common misconception is that once you suffer from erection problems you will always have them, but that’s not really true.

With a healthier lifestyle and proactive approach, you can overcome male impotence successfully and avoid facing it again. The reason why some men do experience some forms of erection difficulties after they had overcome it at some point is that they return to bad habits.

Overcoming a sexual dysfunction is all about having a healthier, happier life and adjustments you make benefit you and your health in the long run. It’s wrong to forget about that once your problem is gone.

Make sure your healthy lifestyle modifications are here to stay and you won’t have this problem.

• Does My Health Insurance Cover Erectile Dysfunction Treatment?

Insurance coverage of Erectile Dysfunction management depends on the type of the treatment that a patient is about to undergo. In cases when a documented medical condition causes ED, insurance may cover some aspect of treatment.

Medications that have not been approved by the FDA, sex therapy, and alternative approaches are not covered by insurance.

Insurance coverage also depends on the insurance provider.

Consult your insurance provider if you’re considering some specific treatment and want to know whether it will be covered or not.

• Why Can’t I Just Use Viagra To Deal With My Erectile Dysfunction?

Little blue pill (or some other impotence drug) is a common solution for men with sexual problems, but that’s not the wisest idea.

These drugs carry a high risk of side effects.

They are not meant to be a long-term solution to this problem, but a short-term treatment option. Basically, Viagra can help you for a while but you need to make some effort to fix this problem.

That’s why it’s always useful to cure erectile dysfunction naturally.

Conclusion

When experiencing any form of Erectile Dysfunction the last thing you should do is panic or thinking there’s nothing you can do. Although it may be frustrating at first, Erectile Dysfunction is a manageable problem.

Healthy lifestyle and a proactive approach are the best way to overcome this common sexual dysfunction. This article listed the best ways to overcome Erectile Dysfunction in a natural manner and you just need to start incorporating tips and suggestions into your lifestyle.

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