Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem that affects men of all ages, although the risk increases with age. It’s often easily treatable with effective drugs such as Viagra (available more cheaply online under the name sildenafil). However, before embarking on a course of medication, it is important to understand the cause of ED.
This is because normal sexual function requires a strong flow of blood to the penile tissues, so if there is an irregularity in blood flow, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition. Often, poor circulation can be caused by a high-fat diet that leads to atherosclerosis, or a narrowing of the arteries.
A diet that is high in free sugars and saturated fats also leads to obesity, which heightens the risk of ED-related conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Studies have also linked obesity to an increased risk of inflammation and oxidative stress, which in turn may cause or make ED worse.
The role of oxidative stress in ED
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, including the cells that line the blood vessels, making it more difficult for the body to sustain blood flow to the penile tissues.
Oxidative stress has been linked to the development of a range of diseases that are known to heighten the risk of ED, such as cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
How an antioxidant diet may reduce the risk of ED
A new study reported by Medical News Today has found that a higher antioxidant intake is associated with a lower risk of ED. The study group involved a total of 3,665 men over the age of 20.
Within the cohort, 27 per cent had a diagnosis of ED, and this group were found to have a significantly lower intake of a range of dietary antioxidants, such as selenium, zinc, vitamins A, C, and E, and also several carotenoids. For the purposes of the study, this is known as the Compound Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI).
The article explains: “Men with ED were typically in a marriage or cohabitating, older, had greater BMI values, possessed a higher level of education, engaged in less physical activity,
and consumed alcohol. ED patients were also more likely to be diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and hypercholesterolemia.”
“The study findings suggest that high levels of CDAI have the potential to reduce ED risk; however, extensive and prospective cohort studies should be conducted to further validate these observations.”
How can antioxidants help treat ED?
Antioxidants are compounds found in a range of foods that neutralise free radicals, potentially stopping or slowing down damage to the cells. This helps to protect the lining of the blood vessels, including those in the penile tissues. Reduced oxidative damage enhances overall vascular function, which is necessary for healthy sexual function.
Antioxidants are also known to reduce inflammation and protect the heart, further boosting circulation. Furthermore, they may support nitrate oxide production, which is crucial for male sexual function, and may help to regulate blood sugar levels, lowering the risk of diabetes, which is a common underlying cause of ED.
Antioxidant-rich foods
If you have persistent problems with ED, including antioxidant-rich foods in your diet may bring about some improvement. Good sources include dark berries such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries; leaf greens such as spinach, kale, and rocket; citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruit; dark chocolate, and nuts and seeds.
Limitations of the study
While these foods will help everyone to maintain good health, the limitations of the study should be mentioned.
The authors note: “A key limitation of the current study is its cross-sectional design, which precludes causal analysis. The precision of the diagnosis could also be compromised due to the reliance of self-reported data from a single questionnaire.”
“Additionally, the researchers also did not measure oxidative stress in the study participants. It is also difficult to ensure that these associations remain relevant for modern ED patients, as data from the current study were obtained between 2001 and 2004.”
However, there is an overwhelming amount of evidence to support the benefit of eating a well-balanced diet for good overall health, as well as better sexual function.
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