Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often caused by a physical condition, such as diabetes, sleep disorders, heart disease and poor blood flow. In fact, research studies show that men with heart disease are twice as likely to have erectile dysfunction. The reason?…Both 
conditions stem from artery damage. Other common, underlying contributors to ED include: stress, alcohol, smoking and obesity.
Regardless of the underlying causes, one of man’s best NATURAL defenses against ED is to make sure he gets enough regular exercise. An hour of exercise daily will not only improve circulation, help men maintain a healthy weight, stimulate good hormone production, it also helps reduce stress, one of the most common contributing factors.
While it hasn’t yet been clinically proven that vitamins can effectively cure erectile dysfunction, there are note-worthy studies that link vitamins with men’s sexual health. One such study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found a link between low levels of vitamin D and ED. Also, Vitamin C is known to improve blood flow which plays an important part in healthy sexual function. Foods that can contribute to sexual health include the following:
High Vitamin C Fruits and Veggies such as:
| Oranges | Tangerines | Grapefruits | Blue-berries |
| Black-berries | Melons | Pineapple | Papaya |
| Tomatoes | Spinach | Broccoli | Red Bell Peppers |
Almonds
Almonds contain several vitamins and minerals that are important for sexual health and the reproductive system. These include vitamin E, which supports heart health, omega-3 fatty acids, which help with blood flow and Selenium which helps with infertility issues. Almonds also contains the mineral Zinc, which helps in the production of male sex hormones which can boost libido.
Try this recipe: Halibut Almondine – Just top a Halibut filet with butter, garlic and sliced almonds and bake for 10-15 minutes at 400 F.
Avocados
Considered super-fruits, avocados are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties that promote better blood flow and may prevent or delay heart disease. Avocados are also a good source of mono-unsaturated fats which contribute to heart health. Circulation can be critical for a healthy sex life, so anything that helps your circulation and heart, can promote a healthier sex life.
Try this superfood recipe: Spread cream cheese onto ½ Bagel then add sliced tomato and Avocado. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon-pepper for a healthy breakfast or snack.
Olive Oil
The monounsaturated fat contained in olive oil helps keep arteries clear so blood flow remains strong enough to facilitate erection, as opposed to Saturated and trans fats which narrow and constrict arteries restricting healthy blood-flow.
Mix ¼ cup of olive oil with ¼ cup Basalmic vinegar for a heart-healthy salad dressing.
Strawberries
Strawberries are also rich in antioxidants, and vitamin C. Both have been linked to higher sperm counts in men. They also benefit your heart arteries and facilitate good circulation, which is crucial for sexual functioning. Methylxanthines, found in dark chocolate, are known to activate the libido.
For a sexy snack: Dip fresh strawberries in melted Dark Chocolate
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, providing the body with vitamin A, which studies are showing may help with infertility. These tasty delights also contain Potassium, which helps lower high blood pressure associated with erectile dysfunction.
For a perfectly potent potato, slice sweet potato in half and top with ½ tsp honey and sprinkle with cinnamon. Place in a sealed plastic bag and microwave on high for 7- 8 minutes, let cool and enjoy!
Watermelon
This refreshing summer-time favorite is not only low in calories, it is also high in libido-boosting phytonutrients. These include Citrulline, Lycopene and Beta-carotene known to relax blood vessels which may increase one’s sex drive.
Just slice watermelon in half length-wise, then cut into 1 inch thick slices and enjoy!
Are you interested in learning more about Holistic Nutrition and/or Anatomy? If so, please visit us online or call us at (949) 305-2722 in Laguna Hills, or (760) 746-9364 in Escondido.
Healing Hands School of Holistic Health (HHSHH) has been serving residents through two regional campuses for over 23 years. With more than 80 Holistic Health courses and two Certification Programs to offer, HHSHH is considered a trail-blazer for Holistic Health Education in Southern California. To date, HHSHH has prepared more than 6,000 students for successful and rewarding careers as Massage Therapists and Holistic Health Practitioners.