Protecting Your Erection

1. Have a good diet: A healthy diet that’s good for your heart will also go some way to protecting your potency. “The risk factors for ED are the same for coronary disease, so if you lower your cholesterol, take exercise and eat healthily it will be of benefit,” says Dr Graham Jackson, consultant cardiologist and chairman of the Sexual Advice Association. Blood flow is needed for the penis to become erect. Diets that include very few fruits and vegetables along with lots of fatty, fried and processed foods can contribute to decreased blood circulation throughout the body.

2. Stay slim: If you are overweight you have a higher risk of many health problems, including diabetes and heart disease. There have been studies suggesting having a large waist can increase your risk of erection problems but there’s no definitive proof this is the case.

3. Avoid high blood pressure and high cholesterol: Another cause of ED is reduced blood flow to the penis due to raised cholesterol levels or high blood pressure. Both conditions can damage blood vessels, including those that bring blood to the penis. Eventually, this may lead to ED. Make sure your doctor checks your cholesterol levels and blood pressure. You might also want to check your own blood pressure between doctor visits. Blood pressure monitors are also sold for home use.

4. Don’t overdo the booze: Some men who’ve been drinking too much alcohol on a particular occasion may not be able to get an erection. There’s no evidence that drinking within limits is bad for erectile function but chronic heavy drinking is another matter. Persistent drinking can make a man unable to perform. Very heavy drinking can cause liver damage, nerve damage and other conditions which may lead to ED.

5. Exercise regularly: Many physical causes of erectile dysfunction are linked to vascular problems. Exercise, which gets the blood flowing around your body, is recommended. Running, swimming, and other aerobic exercises get your heart pumping and oxygen into your blood. Be careful with cycling; it can put pressure on your perineum. Use padded shorts and a properly fitted bike seat. Men cycling more than 3 hours a week with erectile problems should consider taking a break.

6. Keep tabs on testosterone: Even healthy men may see testosterone levels fall sharply around age 50. Symptoms like low sex drive, moodiness, lack of stamina, or weak erections suggest a deficiency.