Quezi

Man performs mystical stretching exercises on Morro Strand (Photo by mikebaird CC-BY)

According to the latest research, the answer is yes! Weight loss and regular exercise have shown positive results in treating erectile dysfunction. While there are many causes of ED, an emphasis on overall health through diet and exercise can provide one of the least invasive and natural methods for helping to prevent or reverse this condition.

Weight loss. Medical research has shown an association between obesity and erectile dysfunction. A recent study found that obese men with erectile dysfunction often have diminished testosterone levels and abnormal penile blood flow and that the severity of obesity has a direct influence on both these factors. Lifestyle changes including weight loss and physical activity are an integral component in helping to reverse obesity and associated conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Aerobic and strength training exercises are vital to increasing blood flow throughout the body, losing weight, building muscle and achieving overall health.

The Harvard Health Professionals Follow-up Study confirmed the importance of exercise and body leanness in maintaining healthy sexual function. The commitment to keeping a normal weight can be especially rewarding to men who suffer from erectile dysfunction. Research results show that individuals can actually reverse ED and restore normal sexual functioning after a dedicated effort to weight loss and regular exercise.

Pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises. No, these are not just for women! Research shows that pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen the weak musculature which often contributes to erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. In one study, researchers found that after a six month program of pelvic floor exercises, 40% of men had regained normal erectile function and another 35.5% showed significant improvement. Kegel exercises are very easy to perform. While seated or standing, simply tense the muscles which you would normally use to stop the flow of urine. Hold for 5-10 seconds, relax and repeat. Do this cycle 10 times, twice a day. Further instructions on how to perform pelvic floor exercises can be found on the Bladder and Bowel Foundation website.

Most men experience some degree of erectile dysfunction as they get older. As with many diseases, the medical community is starting to acknowledge the importance of diet and exercise in helping to prevent, and in some cases, reverse this common problem. Studies have shown that men who initiate physical activity in midlife have a 70% reduced risk for ED compared to men who remain in a sedentary lifestyle.

So, if you are willing to take charge over potential concerns with your sexual health, why not take a serious look at controllable components of your lifestyle. Before you give up and head to the doctor’s office for a prescription, how about giving your body a fighting chance. Put on a pair of gym shoes, get your body moving, and see if you can just leave those little blue pills for the next guy!