Proactive Steps for Promoting Men’s Sexual Health and Wellness
Men’s sexual health and wellness is an integral part of overall well-being. Proactive steps, like staying active, eating healthy, and dropping bad habits, can lead to healthier sex lives. Herbal remedies have been shown to improve sexual satisfaction. However, talking with a doctor before trying these supplements is essential.
Avoid Drugs
Taking drugs, including prescription medications, can interfere with sexual health. For example, some blood pressure medications (diuretics and beta-blockers) interfere with blood flow to the penis, reduce sperm count and impair orgasm. Likewise, drinking alcohol can lower inhibitions and boost confidence but also reduces libido, causes erectile dysfunction, and makes it harder to achieve orgasm. Several recreational drugs can cause problems, as well. Men need to use birth control to prevent unwanted pregnancies or STIs. Talk to your doctor about condoms, the pill, shot, implant, or diaphragm. Your physician and most men’s health Rockville specialists are experienced in fielding these conversations and care about your comfort level. They may recommend other forms of birth control based on your personal health history and circumstances.
Stay Active
Men who don’t get enough physical activity suffer from several health issues, including sexual dysfunction. Exercise can boost libido, reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and help keep testosterone levels healthy. Resistance training may also help to fight erectile dysfunction. Your body and your ability level will determine the kind of exercise you select. Still, most studies suggest a weekly regimen of at least 160 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity workouts. Avoiding heavy drinking can also improve your sexual function and overall health. A few drinks can lower inhibitions, but too much alcohol can reduce libido, cause erectile dysfunction, and make it harder to orgasm. It’s true for men who are older than 30.
Eat Healthy
Our bodies work in large part because of the food we eat. Insufficient intake of essential nutrients can negatively impact hormone levels and libido. Increasing libido can be facilitated by eating a balanced diet high in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Eating antioxidant-rich foods like berries, blackberries, cherries, spinach, kale, and tomatoes can also improve sexual function. These foods are high in vitamin C, which has been shown to boost libido, and folic acid and zinc, which can aid fertility. Another aphrodisiac, oysters, are rich in zinc, which helps increase testosterone and improves blood flow. Magnesium is another essential nutrient that can improve libido, enhance relaxation, and ease stress, resulting in greater sexual satisfaction. Proper nutrition and avoiding processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats can improve libido and overall health.
Avoid Smoking
Not only does smoking damage a person’s health and increase the risk of serious illness, but it also negatively impacts sexual arousal. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is more common in men who smoke regularly, according to research. Smoking narrows the blood vessels in the penis, which interferes with the healthy blood flow needed to achieve a firm erection. Both men and women who smoke experience reduced sexual arousal and satisfaction.
Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce smoking-related sexual problems and improve sexual functioning. One way is to set a quit date and stick to it. Another is to identify and avoid the situations or emotions that trigger cravings for a cigarette. These can include stress, social events, or specific routines. Lastly, it’s essential to get plenty of exercise and eat well.
Get Tested
Men’s sexual health is essential because many STIs can lead to infertility, certain types of cancer, and HIV. Getting tested regularly and using condoms when having unprotected sex reduces the risk of getting these diseases. Men’s sexual health is additionally enhanced by regular exercise and a balanced diet. Eating well helps boost testosterone, which can improve libido and erectile function. Low levels of vitamin D and high cholesterol can also negatively affect sex drive.
