Before you pop a Viagra: 7 Natural ED remedies

Clinical Editor: Megan Dodson, PA-C

Many factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED) — anything from smoking to cardiovascular disease to general stress — and you shouldn’t be shy about discussing any erectile problems with your doctor. If there’s an underlying health condition causing your troubles, treating the cause may get you back to top form in no time.

Of course, these days we also have a variety of medications available to help men achieve and maintain an erection. But before you pop a pill, try these natural tips for sexual health.

Smoking causes arteries to become stiff, which can have the opposite effect on your erection. Decreased blood flow to your sexual organs can make it difficult to achieve an erection.

It can’t be stressed enough — a healthy diet and lifestyle has numerous benefits, including in the bedroom. ED is linked to cardiovascular disease and diabetes, so eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains can reduce your chance of developing heart problems and, in turn, can alleviate your ED.

Studies have shown that engaging in aerobic exercise may treat erectile dysfunction. Additionally, regular aerobic exercise in combination with a healthy diet will reduce your chance of developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes — which is good for your sexual health.

There are several herbs and supplements that have been reported to improve libido and erectile dysfunction symptoms. These include maca, tribulus, rhodiola, ginseng, omega-3s, DHEA, and L-arginine. There isn’t a lot of scientific evidence to support these claims, and when you buy those products from the internet or a retail store, you have no real way of knowing what you’re ingesting. If you’re interested in trying them, talk to your healthcare provider first to see whether they’re safe for you. Make sure to tell your healthcare provider all the medications and herbs and supplements you’re already taking, as many of these may have interactions with other herbs and supplements.

Make no mistake: foreplay matters. Choose a setting that promotes intimacy and communication with your partner, which can reduce performance anxiety. Take time to warm up and get into the mood.

We live in a society that expects high performance in every aspect of life — including sex. If you’re having erectile dysfunction issues, practice stress-reducing techniques every day so you can relax and enjoy intimacy without worrying about your performance.

Sometimes low libido or sexual dysfunction can occur due to low testosterone levels. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you need a testosterone supplement. Your body needs downtime to convert precursor hormones into testosterone. If you’re burning the candle at both ends, your body may not be able to produce as much testosterone. So rest, relax, and allow your body to build up its testosterone stores.

Originally published October 27, 2014