Erectile Dysfunction (ED) has been around as far back as we go. Throughout this time, men have tried many different treatments and solutions. Treatment for ED date in Ancient Rome and Greece consisted of wearing rooster and goat genitalia talismans. They believed these talismans would serve as an aphrodisiac and promote sexual function. Similar trends were seen across different parts of the world, where consuming the genitals of animals with high libidos was seen as a potential solution to ED.
Today, thanks to modern science and research, we have effective medicines. In 1998, Pfizer introduced the first Food and Drug Administration–approved oral treatment for ED called Generic sildenafil. As time has passed, variants of this medicine have also emerged and can be found as Cheap Viagra. There is also tadalafil Mylan and Cialis generic for men to use. These treatment options work by improving blood flow to the penis, thereby helping with erection.
Medications have proven to be highly beneficial for men suffering from ED. They have allowed men to live normal lives and not face any issues in the bedroom. However, not every man can take these medications. This may be due to various reasons, such as the incompatibility of ED medications with other medications or the intensity of side effects. This does not mean there is no hope for these men. On the contrary, men can take various other steps to improve their libido and even minimise ED. Making dietary and lifestyle changes can go a long way towards better sexual health.
It may seem unlikely, but eating spicier food can actually improve erection. In this blog, we will tell you all about it. But first, some background.
Testosterone
Testosterone is a hormone produced by our bodies. It is found in both men and women. In men, the testicles primarily produce testosterone. Women’s ovaries also make testosterone, though in much smaller amounts. Testosterone production starts to increase significantly during puberty, when it is needed the most for sperm production and developing bone and muscle mass. Testosterone levels begin to decrease after age 30.
The primary physiological function of testosterone in the male sexual response is to regulate the timing of the erectile process, thereby coordinating penile erection with sex. Low testosterone levels are linked to a number of the same chronic conditions that play a role in erectile dysfunction.
It is necessary to understand the role testosterone plays in ED, as a healthy diet and spicy foods can facilitate or even increase testosterone production.
Diet and ED
What we put into our bodies dramatically dictates our overall health. Consuming too many sugars, unhealthy fats, alcohol and foods high in salt can lead to health complications. These foods can also cause ED or make it worse. This is because food plays a part in how effectively our blood flows across our bodies, including the penis.
Spicy Food And ED
Studies have shown that certain foods can help with prostate and sexual health, such as spinach, carrots, and chilli peppers. Chilli peppers have been found to contain capsaicin. This chemical compound has been known to act as a natural blood thinner when our bodies absorb it. This results in improved blood circulation, lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. Improved blood flow makes it easier to get and maintain an erection. Additionally, chillies also contain a naturally occurring nitrogen compound called alkaloids. These have been known to lead to higher stimulation of the nerves in the penis.
Spicy food also increases the production of hormones in our bodies. For example, testosterone, endorphin, and dopamine levels increase in our bodies after consuming spicy food. These hormones help in getting aroused and deliver a feel-good effect.
A study performed at the University of Grenoble tested the relation between spicy foods and ED on a sample of 114 men between 18 and 44. These men were given mashed potatoes with a side of hot sauce. Then, they were instructed to add as much hot sauce as they would like. The study found that men who added the hottest sauce also had higher testosterone levels and performed better during sex. However, it is still not sure how this relationship between spicy food and testosterone works. Still, several other studies have also shown the correlation between consuming spicy foods and increased testosterone levels in men.
Despite all the overwhelming evidence showing a correlation between spicy food and testosterone levels, researchers are unsure whether testosterone drives spicy food consumption or vice versa. Either way, spicy food should not be used as an end-all-be-all solution for treating ED.
Treating ED
Living a healthy lifestyle can be highly effective against ED. Exercising regularly, having a balanced diet, healthy sleeping habits, and moderation if not avoidance of alcohol and tobacco, is beneficial to health and helps with a healthier erection.
A range of mental health issues can also cause ED. This is because arousal is as much a mental process as it is physical, and men suffering from depression, anxiety and low self-esteem can have problems getting and staying erect. Many anti-depressants also lower the libido as a side effect. Seeking help from a mental health professional can help address these problems.
If you think you suffer from ED, the best course of action is to visit a physician. ED medications come in different types, such as Generic Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, and Sildenafil. The doctor will examine your condition and prescribe the medicine that best suits your case. The doctor will also determine the root cause of your problem. ED can be caused by various underlying health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and even injury to the penis, spinal cord, prostate, bladder, or pelvis. Treating the underlying condition can automatically lead to better sexual health.
IQ Doctor
IQ Doctor is a fully licensed pharmacy that offers a wide variety of ED medications. You can visit their website and get a free consultation with a medical professional to find what may work for you. Once you place your order, they will deliver the medication to your doorstep with complete confidentiality and without delay.
