Erectile dysfunction can be a relatively harmless problem caused by stress or a sign of a more serious problem, such as diabetes, atherosclerosis or hypertension. Consult your physician to determine the root cause of your erectile dysfunction and obtain treatment. While not a replacement for your doctor's care, some dietary changes may encourage healthy erectile function.
L-Arginine Rich Foods
The amino acid L-arginine is converted by your body to nitric oxide, which is used by your body to encourage the smooth muscle tissue surrounding blood vessels to relax. This results in dilated blood vessels and increased blood flow. When this occurs in the penis, an erection is more likely. Therefore, eating foods rich in L-arginine can assist you in developing and maintaining an erection. Foods rich in L-arginine include fish, poultry, red meat and dairy.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Leafy green vegetables are rich in nitrates, which act as a vasodilator and promote healthy blood flow. Celery, lettuce, spinach, kale and broccoli are some vegetables rich in nitrates. The benefits of these vegetables can be achieved by eating them raw or cooked, although "Prescription for Natural Cures" says that you should only boil these vegetables if you intend to use the water in the same dish. Otherwise, many of the nutrients are lost to the water in the boiling process.
Pistachios
Pistachios contain healthy fats and L-arginine. The combination of fat with L-arginine makes this nut ideal for overall cardiac health, according to "Prescription for Natural Cures." Because a healthy heart is vital to a healthy erection, pistachios can indirectly help with an erection by helping to maintain good cardiac health and overall circulation.
Watermelon
Watermelon's citrulline content is useful for promoting healthy blood flow by dilating blood vessels. This is beneficial because erections require healthy blood flow. To prevent the citrulline from breaking down and to keep it in its most useful form, "Prescription for Natural Cures" recommends storing watermelon at room temperature until you cut into it; refrigeration can lessen the effects of citrulline.
References
- "Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies"; Frances Sizer; 2008
- "Foundations of Nursing"; Lois White, et al.; 2010
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James Balch, et al.; 2004
Member Comments