The Evidence on How a Healthy Lifestyle Supports Healthy Sex

"Since the 1970s, a mountain of research has shown that ED's main cause is not psychological turmoil, but cardiovascular disease (CVD), the cause of heart attack and stroke. CVD narrows the arteries that carry blood throughout the body, including into the penis. Erection depends on increased blood flow into the spongy erectile tissues of the central penis."

"A recent review of dozens of studies concluded that ED "has aptly been called the 'canary in the coal mine' for heart attack and stroke" because it often develops before either of those cardiovascular emergencies strikes."

"Stress releases the hormone cortisol, which narrows the arteries, including those in the penis. To reopen them, reduce stress. Psychological interventions help, notably mindfulness meditation, which involves deep breathing and nonjudgmental focus on the present moment. Canadian researchers asked 141 couples to keep sex and lifestyle diaries for 28 days. Those who practiced the most present-moment awareness in their sexual interactions had better sexual function, and the men reported firmer erections."

Erectile dysfunction was historically attributed to psychological disturbance, but research since the 1970s reveals cardiovascular disease as the primary cause. CVD narrows arteries that supply blood to the penis, inhibiting erections. ED serves as an early warning sign for heart attack and stroke. Paradoxically, psychological interventions prove effective for prevention and treatment despite ED's physical origins. Stress management through mindfulness meditation reduces cortisol levels, which constrict arteries. Studies demonstrate that couples practicing present-moment awareness during sexual interactions experience improved sexual function and firmer erections. These psychological and lifestyle approaches simultaneously enhance mental health outcomes.

Read at Psychology Today