Introduction
Erectile dysfunction (or impotence, as it is commonly called) is when a man has trouble getting or maintaining an erection that is firm enough for sex. While it can happen at any age, the problem is more common among older men.
For many men, having an erection is not only crucial for sex, but also forms a key part of their male identity and psychological health. As well, erectile dysfunction can sometimes be an indication of physical health problems, such as high blood pressure or depression.
Causes/Risk Factors
Erectile dysfunction and low libido have a multitude of causes. There may be nerve damage or problems with the blood supply to the penis. Alcoholism, candidiasis and diabetes can reduce testosterone levels. Heavy smoking and arteriosclerosis often interfere with blood supply to the penis. In rarer cases, erectile dysfunction may be a symptom of a specific health condition, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinsons's disease and mumps.
Many drugs can reduce libido and cause erectile dysfunction, including antidepressants, ulcer medications and high blood pressure pills (not to mention illicit drugs, including marijuana and cocaine). Check with your doctor if you have concerns about any of your medications, especially if you began taking them recently.
Complex psychological factors are often involved in erectile dysfunction. Depression is one of the most common reasons for a low sex drive in men. Strong emotions -- anger, guilt, boredom and anxiety -- may contribute, as well. Sometimes, these can be relieved simply by humour and a light-hearted, healthier attitude toward sex.
Couples lose interest when sex becomes routine instead of pleasurable, or when work and family life become so busy that fatigue overwhelms any desire. This can limit opportunities for sexual contact. Fear of pregnancy and pain during intercourse may also hinder desire. In a relationship, it helps to talk openly about problems, as well as to simply spend more time enjoying each other's company without the children, television or discussions about work and the household.
Age does not eliminate desire, nor does it cause impotence. However, it does change sexual needs and functioning, just as it affects other aspects of life.
Surgery can sometimes impair a man's ability to have and maintain an erection, especially prostate surgery or if there has been damage to the pelvic area.
What You Can Do
Nourish your body with a healthy, balanced diet based on Canada's Food Guide.
Engage in physical activity 30-60 minutes daily.
Try relaxation or sensual exercises.
Don't smoke or use illegal drugs. Limit your alcohol consumption.
Address any underlying emotional issues and seek to build your stress resilience. Be honest and compassionate with yourself; seek counselling if necessary.
Talk to your partner. This may help to relieve your anxiety, which could be exacerbating the problem.
Review your medications with your doctor to see if they could be a contributing factor. If they are, consult your doctor about changing the dosage or the prescription.
If lifestyle changes and medications don't work, your doctors may recommend a surgical implant in order to have a satisfactory erection for sex. However, this option is usually considered as a last resort.
What You Can Take
There are many prescription drugs to treat erectile dysfunction. The main medications that can help are Viagra, Levitra and Cialis. However, you may not be able to take them if you're already taking other medicines or if you have heart problems. Ask your doctor if any prescription medications may be appropriate for you.
A satisfying sex life is dependent on general good health. Eat a whole-foods diet with plenty of fresh vegetables and whole grains, and use nut and seed oils -- such as flaxseed, walnut or pumpkin seed oil -- daily. The essential fatty acids found in these unrefined, cold-pressed oils are converted in the body to prostaglandins, which regulate sexual response. Eat them with foods that provide vitamin B6, such as green leafy vegetables, nutritional yeast, raw wheat germ and whole grains.
Male sexual impotence is often a circulatory problem. Niacin-rich foods such as eggs, peanut butter, nutritional yeast, wheat germ, avocados, dried figs and fish help increase blood flow and also remove arterial deposits.
Vitamin E has been dubbed the "sex vitamin." It assists the oxygenation of the blood, which engorges the erect penis. Raw wheat germ is the best dietary source of vitamin E. Other good sources include unrefined, cold-pressed vegetable oils, flaxseed oil, nuts, eggs, sweet potatoes and leafy vegetables.
Zinc helps to prevent impotence and reduced sperm count. It's provided by pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, oysters, nutritional yeast, raw wheat germ, soybeans and eggs. Alcohol and coffee should be avoided, since they limit the absorption of zinc.
Impotence and lack of sexual desire may also be the result of a magnesium deficiency. Figs, lemons, cashews, almonds, dark green vegetables, wheat germ, cocoa and apples are good sources of magnesium.
The minerals manganese and phosphorus can help contribute to a healthy sex drive. Both are found in legumes, eggs, nuts and whole grain cereals.
Iron is essential to general health, and an iron deficiency can lead to impotence. Iron-rich foods include leeks, all green leafy vegetables, red beets and red grapes.
The brain is a major player in regulating sexual response. To make sure the brain receives a constant supply of the glucose it needs, limit the intake of sugary foods, which cause upsetting fluctuations in blood-sugar levels.
Further Information
Visit the College of Family Physicians of Canada's Web page on erectile dysfunction at www.cfpc.ca/English/cfpc/programs/patient%20education/erectile%20dysfunction/default.asp?s=1.
