Nearly 18 million men throughout the United States suffer with erectile dysfunction, or ED. If you or your spouse is struggling with erectile dysfunction, you may be reluctant to reach for a pharmaceutical treatment and are instead looking for healthier, more natural ways to treat this common condition. Here are three simple lifestyle changes you or your partner can make right now to help prevent erectile dysfunction:
Get Plenty of Sleep
Between work, kids and the stresses of everyday life, getting a good night sleep can be nearly impossible. However, in addition to lifting your mood, making sleep a priority can also help treat erectile dysfunction.
According to a study in the journal Brain Research, there is a direct link between poor sleep habits and lower amounts of testosterone, which will in turn leads to erectile dysfunction.
If you've tried everything and still cannot seem to get a decent night's sleep, here are a few simple tips that can help you both fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night:
- Lower the temperature in your bedroom at night and put the warm blankets away because being too hot can make it difficult for you to fall and stay asleep.
- Invest in a new mattress. Whether you prefer a pillow top or firm mattress doesn't really matter. A newer mattress will provide more support and is more comfortable, allowing you to enjoy a better night's sleep.
- Eat foods that are rich in lycopene, (including watermelon and tomato), or foods rich in selenium (such as shellfish and turkey). According to Health magazine, it is believed these two nutrients can help you get a restful night's sleep.
Lessen Your Stress
From a weakened immune system to several other illnesses and disorders, stress can have a damaging impact on the human body. In addition, all of that stress and anxiety can also be one of the reasons why a male is suffering with erectile dysfunction.
Unfortunately, if stress is the cause of a man's erectile dysfunction, the anxiety associated with this common condition can cause further stress, which in turn will make ED even worse.
If you're struggling with stress and are suffering with erectile dysfunction, there are many safe, natural ways to combat this issue. The best place to begin is by speaking with your doctor to learn about the root cause of your stress-induced erectile dysfunction. The problem could be sexual anxiety, or you may be suffering with the stress associated with a divorce, job loss or money issues.
Whatever the case, speaking with your doctor about the causes and treatments for your stress-induced erectile dysfunction—including safe, over the counter help with ED—is the first step to treating this common issue.
Stop Smoking
It's no secret that smoking causes severe damage to an individual's lungs, mouth and even stomach. However, many smokers overlook the impact their addiction can have on their sexual health.
According to WebMD, men who smoke are more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction than men who do not smoke. This is because smoking impairs the body's ability to circulate blood properly, including the blood to the genital area.
If you're a smoker who is also suffering with erectile dysfunction, your habit might be one of the causes. Luckily, there are several methods available to help you kick the habit once and for all. Work with your doctor or therapist to devise a smoking cessation plan that works with your lifestyle and budget.
Erectile dysfunction is a very common issue that millions of men suffer with everyday. If you're concerned your poor sleep habits, stress or smoking is to blame, don't hesitate to work with your doctor to discover a natural, safe way to treat this issue.
Share