Eat This, Not That for A Better Sex Life

Photo Credit: by Skye Sherman

Everyone wants to enjoy an optimal sex life. But few people realize that what you eat may play a big part in your sexual health and performance. This is especially true for those suffering from erectile dysfunction. Men (and, by proxy, their partners) struggle with this unfortunate illness much more commonly than you’d think. But is it possible that your diet could be a key cause or even a cure for your erectile dysfunction?

In this article, we’ll explore the best diet choices out there if you want to increase your chances of having a satisfying sex life and performance that you can rely on. No matter if you suffer from erectile dysfunction or not (whether directly or indirectly), improving your diet and lifestyle choices will improve your life all around, both in the bedroom and in the world at large.

Erectile dysfunction: What are the best and worst diet choices?

Some claim that a major cause of erectile dysfunction is a high fat and low fiber diet. This is a common unhealthy diet based on convenience and ease. In our modern society, living off the land is uncommon. Very few people are farmers these days and many don’t have easy access to fresh, nourishing foods that are minimally processed. Processed foods are often pumped up with artificial additives and lose out on many of their nutrients along the way. In cities and large urban areas, it’s more difficult to acquire foods that have traveled a short distance and time from their origin or source, meaning that they’re still packed with what nature endowed to them. Especially in America, readily available food choices have the danger of being over processed, starchy, full of empty carbs, low in natural fibers, high in unhealthy fats, and more.

All of these foods or this type of lifestyle or diet can lead to a variety of undesirable symptoms, erectile dysfunction included. A diet that is not properly balanced can result in conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, all of which also can produce a negative impact on erectile function and sexual performance.

Did you know that erectile dysfunction is also linked to heart disease? This makes it all the more important to handle the matter with urgency. If those who suffer from erectile dysfunction also have a higher risk of contracting heart disease because the two conditions are sometimes caused by similar factors, then pursuing the right balance of diet and exercise is of paramount importance. If you are not at your ideal weight -- whether due to poor nutrition, a lack of exercise, or a combination of both -- this will have far reaching implications and is likely to have an impact on heart health, sexual performance, and more.

So, what diet is best for those suffering from erectile dysfunction and offers the best chance of improvement through natural methods rather than medication and drugs? According to Men’s Health, “The Mediterranean diet has been linked to lower cancer risk and a healthier heart. And now, it’s been linked to a better sex life, according to new research.

Scientists from the University of Athens studied 660 guys who followed a Mediterranean diet, which is high in fruit and vegetables, legumes, fish, nuts, and olive oil. It found that only one-fifth of the men, who were 67 years old on average, reported erectile dysfunction, according to Newsweek. In comparison, estimates show that 52 percent of men between 40 and 70 years old deal with erectile dysfunction, according to John Hopkins Medicine. This research was presented at the European Society of Cardiology conference in Munich and has not yet been published.

The study recommends eating nine tablespoons of olive oil, 13 servings of vegetables, six pieces of fruit, three servings of fish and two portions of beans a week to decrease risk, reported Newsweek. However, study authors believe olive oil is especially beneficial because it keeps blood vessels healthy. This is important because the penis relies on a steady supply of blood to maintain erections.

‘Men that follow a Med diet – particularly consuming lots of olive oil – see their risk of impotence reduced by up to 40 per cent in older age,’ lead researcher Dr. Christina Chrysohoou told the paper.”

So if the Mediterranean Diet may be able to help men suffering from erectile dysfunction, let’s take a look at exactly what it is.

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean Diet got its name because it is the default food habits of people residing in the Mediterranean region. They mostly live off the land and seldom snack on processed foods, as the harvest of the earth is readily available from the land around them. Because the temperate climate is also a seaside region, fresh seafood is also readily available, so lean fishes are a Mediterranean Diet staple.

A typical diet for someone living in the Mediterranean is light, heart healthy choices like fish, fruit, vegetables, nuts and legumes, and olive oil, as the region is ripe with olive vineyards and wineries and the like. Living off of this style of fare is a nutritious way to indulge in foods that not only taste delectable, but also nourish your body from the inside out.

While olive oil does seem to be a big help -- and is a major part of the Mediterranean Diet -- it’s important to remember that this simple ingredient is not a cure-all. Nobody should begin eating spoonfuls of olive oil and continue on with their usual unhealthy habits. Instead, if you don’t cook much or don’t get many natural oils in your typical diet, begin to incorporate it where you can. Begin to cook with olive oil -- and begin cooking if you don’t already! You can saute fresh vegetables or chicken in olive oil for a delicious and healthy meal. You can also use olive oil in recipes, as it often works as a healthier replacement for other cooking oils like vegetable oil.

All in all, the Mediterranean Diet is rich in healthy fats, naturally occurring nutrients, and fruits and vegetables. These food items are good for the heart, which make them good for erections, too. Healthy blood vessels and arteries are necessary for normal dilation, which is the essence of an erection. If your heart and blood circulation system is working optimally, then you have the best chance of getting and maintaining the level of sexual arousal that you desire. If you want to enhance or improve your sex life and do not already eat healthy, consider trying the Mediterranean Diet on for size.

What foods will harm my sex life?

Some foods out there may not directly impact erectile dysfunction, but can harm a person’s sex life, whether female or male. If your sex life is not where you want it or you simply seek improvement, try changing your diet. Research what foods have what effects on your sex life and then change what you consume accordingly.

Prevention lists the top ten worst foods for your sex life as soda, as high fructose corn syrup raises cholesterol levels and can damage the vascular system; artificial sweeteners like Splenda, Equal, or Sweet ’N Low; canned foods, which are often lined with the chemical BPA; microwave popcorn, which often contains a man made chemical that can affect hormone levels; licorice, which can reduce testosterone levels in men; red meat, which can decrease libido in both men and women; dairy, which can affect hormone production, fertility, and libido; soy; alcohol; and sodium, which can cause high blood pressure and negatively affect blood flow, which is an essential factor in sexual experiences.

Here are some things you can do to improve your sex life through your diet, according to Dr. Felix on Quora:

* “Try to reduce your fat, salt, sugar and cholesterol intake.

* Opt for low-fat or low-sugar alternatives.

* Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.

* Potassium has been found to reduce the effects of salt on your body. Bananas and coconuts are high in potassium, so you could consider eating more of these.

* Avoid highly processed foods including ready meals and pizzas, which are often higher in salt, sugars and fats. Read the label to check.

* Reduce your alcohol intake.

* Caffeine has a possible link to high blood pressure, so you could consider reducing the amount of coffee or caffeinated drinks you consume.

* Avoid saturated fats, i.e. butter, lard, fatty meats including sausages and burgers, cheese.

* Eat more grains and beans i.e. porridge, wholemeal bread, lentils, oat bran etc.

* You may have heard that you should avoid seafood, liver, kidneys and eggs. But if eaten in moderation, these can still form part of your diet.”

If you want to see what these diet changes may do for your sex life or your life overall, give these foods a try. Even if they do not end up working to make a drastic improvement in your sex life, they will only nourish you and increase your health and wellness. You will likely see a variety of benefits from positive changes like that. As you feel better, your wellbeing increases and you will likely see a natural enhancement in every area of your life, your sexuality included.

What foods will improve my sex life?

Just like there are foods that can harm your sex life, there are foods that can improve or increase your sex life. Natural aphrodisiacs or foods that boost your sex drive can be found in a variety of cuisines and formats. Everything from nuts to fruits to teas may have sex enhancing properties.

Some of the top foods that could help to provide you with a better sex life include walnuts, strawberries, raspberries, avocados, almonds, watermelon, eggs, asparagus, arugula, and peaches. Whether they offer you major improvement or not, at the end of the day they are healthy and nourishing foods that should be part of a balanced diet anyway. You can’t go wrong by increasing your intake of these food items!

Of course, one of the favorite and most popular natural aphrodisiacs out there -- and one that has earned a reputation for having a romantic element -- is chocolate, especially dark chocolate. No wonder chocolate is such a popular gift on Valentine’s Day! This treat can improve your mood (thereby enhancing your sex life as a result) by releasing serotonin and endorphins, plus other feel good hormones. If you’re happier, you’re more likely to feel at ease and have a better time in the bedroom. Chocolate’s effects on your sex life may be indirect -- and of course you shouldn’t consume chocolate in excess -- but who doesn’t want to enjoy a piece of chocolate every now and then? Share some chocolate with your partner and see if the food has an effect on your sexual experience. If nothing else, you got to enjoy a delicious treat.

Photo Credit: by Skye Sherman

Where to purchase medications for a better sex life

At times, no matter how healthy your diet and how balanced your lifestyle, you still may encounter issues with sexual performance and enjoyment. If that’s the case, you should visit a doctor and talk about your options. He or she may prescribe drugs to you that will help with increased libido, erectile function, and the like.

Erectile dysfunction drugs may be the solution for you and your partner. If nothing else is working or your condition is caused by other factors, these prescriptions may be your best bet. A medical professional will be able to make the right recommendations for you.

You can purchase erectile dysfunction medications like Cialis, Levitra, Viagra, and more from our website. With a proper prescription, the process is easy. You simply send your viable prescription to us, then place your order for the pills that you need. The pill strength and quantity that you order will likely be determined by what your doctor has prescribed. Feel free to reach out and ask us if you have any questions or concerns. We’re happy to help.

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Skye Sherman is a professional writer who has been published in numerous local and international outlets. She has also worked for a wellness company and is very familiar with the healthcare industry. She holds a degree from a Florida university.