|
Men's sexual health
depends on an optimal level of fitness and nutrition.
Almost all men experience changes in their sexual
health, at one point or another in their lives.
This obstacle in men's sexual health can be due
to illness, disability, fatigue, obesity, low
self esteem, medications, recreational drugs,
past sexual experiences, and/or loss of sexual
interest in a partner. Proper management of life's
uncertainties is essential for sexual health.
In order to maintain sexual health, men need to
feel desire and desired, and to have their body
and mind in synch.
For a healthy
sex life, men need good circulation (which increases
sensitivity in the penis), physical vitality,
and good hormone function.. A balanced diet is
extremely important in optimizing sexual responsiveness.
Sexual vitality decreases with malnourishment.
A healthy cardiovascular system should be the
focus of any diet. Low-fat, high-fiber diets are
strongly recommended. Maintaining good circulation
and a healthy weight will lead to better sexual
function, and excellent sexual health. Protein
intake such as eggs, fish, meat or poultry is
proven to increase libido, yet excessive protein
may interfere with desire. Cholesterol intake
should be observed, if too low sexual performance
and vitality can be affected. On the other hand
if cholesterol levels are high decreased sensitivity
in the genitals will result, therefore restricting
a man's pleasure.
Prescription and
recreational drugs have both been linked to decreased
sexual desire. Alcohol, nicotine, coffee, and
marijuana are some pleasure drugs that may reduce
vitality, as can many pharmaceuticals, such as
tranquilizers, anti-hypertensive drugs, particular
beta-blockers, and hormones. As many as 400 over-the-counter
medications are known to cause occasional problems
with sexual function.
Depression is
probably the most important illness implicated
in low desire. Depression can reduce sex drive,
as can the drugs used to treat it. Antidepressants
can cause diminished desire and problems, such
as impotence and delayed orgasm for men.
The FDA defines
an aphrodisiac as a food, drink, drug, scent,
or device that claims to increase sexual desire
or improve or enhance performance. Seafood is
one of the best know aphrodisiacs. Fish are believed
to be stimulating for the brain and for sexual
function. Shellfish, such as oysters and clams
are among the favorites, because of their high
levels of zinc. Foods with high-zinc content stimulate
male prostate function, as well as male fertility,
testosterone hormone production and sex drive.
Seaweeds, which are rich in minerals also enhance
libido. Low levels of zinc can cause impotence,
low sperm count, and loss of sexual interest.
However, zinc should not be taken excessively
because this can lead to reduced immune function
and absorption of necessary minerals such as copper
and manganese. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to
male infertility. Vitamin E, also known as the
"sex vitamin" encourages longer and
harder erections. The amino acid l-arginine boosts
sperm production.
Physical fitness
is important to a productive lifestyle. Regular
cardiovascular exercise is a key factor in maintaining
vitality while in the bedroom. It reduces both
stress and anxiety (which negatively affect desire),
therefore promoting optimal sexual well-being.
Regular physical activity improves adrenal function,
Men with higher testosterone levels and better
adrenal function usually will have more sex drive.
Recent studies suggest that men who have intercourse
at least three times a week cut their risk of
a heart attack in half.
|
