Everyday, I get at least 5 Spam emails asking me whether I have erectile dysfunction? Whether I am able to satisfy my partner? Whether I would like Viagra or Cialis? Apparently, erectile dysfunction is a big problem and most adult males are reticent about discussing their problem openly. One of the most embarrassing and shameful conditions that a man may face throughout his lifetime is an inability to perform sexually. It’s a problem that many men throughout the world face.
Consider these statistics
A one out of nine man in America faces problems with erectile dysfunction. That accounts for over eleven percent of all men in the country! As far as the total number of men there are in the United States that have problems achieving an erection, the number sits at around thirty million people.
Between 20 and 46 percent of all men that are between the ages of 40 and 69 experience erectile dysfunction. While the problem is prevalent in those of an older age, it can strike young and old men alike.
What are the causes of erectile dysfunction in men?
The most common cause of ED are Diseases—such as diabetes, kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, arteriosclerosis, vascular disease and neurological disease that account for about 70 percent of ED cases. Between 35 and 50 percent of men with diabetes experience ED.
Lifestyle choices like smoking, being overweight, and avoiding exercise are possible causes of ED too.
In addition, many common medicines—blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, antidepressants, tranquilizers, appetite suppressants, and cimetidine (an ulcer drug)—can produce ED as a side effect.
In 10 to 20% cases, experts believe that psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, guilt, depression, low self-esteem and fear of sexual failure cause ED.
What food are great aphrodisiacs?
Some foods are said to increase the libido. The real reasons may be due to psychological effects on the brain, which helps release certain chemicals that increase the libido. It is believed that plant aphrodisiacs include nuts, fruits and some grains. There is no real scientific proof that vegetables, herbs, nuts or grains can really improve libido. Much of our current knowledge is based on folklore.
Vegetables
Asparagus and artichoke are two vegetables that seem to have aphrodisiac like properties although nobody knows what chemicals in them do this trick. Celery is said to contain a hormone called as androsterone, a male hormone that stimulates sexual arousal in females.
Even vegetables like carrot, fennel and onions have a reputation of being good for the libido. In many Indian ashrams, where aspirants are practicing celibacy, onion is never on the menu.
Nuts
The gingko nut is most popular, as it is said to increase the circulation in the lower part of the body and thus improves the libido.
Grains
Grains like oats help the release of testosterone and this helps libido.
Fruits
Among fruits, banana takes the cake. It is said to contain certain minerals and an enzyme called as bromelain that is supposed to improve the libido. Chinese swear by the pomegranate as a symbol of fertility because of its abundant seeds. The peach is considered to be a seductive fruit, perhaps by virtue of its shape. Perhaps, these fruits have vitamins and minerals that contribute to the well-being of the individual and confer an increased libido.
Herbs and spices
Basil, cardamom, clove, garlic, ginger, pepper and asafetida are good for (literally) spicing up your sex life.
More Info: Part 2
Dr. Rajesh Vishwanathan, MBBS, became disillusioned with the impersonal and aggressive allopathic system and trained and qualified in Yoga, meditation, Naturopathy and Homeopathy. He dreams of Integrating Allopathic medicine with the Alternative systems of healing.
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