Many men turn first to medications such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra to solve their ED problem, but there are lifestyle factors that if controlled, many help to relieve the symptoms of ED.  One of the lifestyle factors which has a major impact on blood vessel health throughout the body is smoking.  Besides the obvious health implications smoking causes an increased risk of impotence and infertility, in both men and women. Kick the habit today and you may see your intimacy improve drastically.

Exercise can also help improve erectile function, by strengthening the heart, improving the flow of oxygen in the blood, and lowering blood pressure. In addition, exercise helps to improve muscle tone and strength, build bones, reduce body fat, reduce stress, tension, anxiety and depression and boost self-esteem, which is particularly important for those with ED.   Exercise at least 20 to 30 minutes, daily for the most benefit and plan a routine that is easy to follow and stick with.  Have fun and relax for an added ED benefit.

Though our bodies are designed to feel stress and react to it, when stress persists, the body begins to break down, problems like erectile dysfunction may crop up.  The key to coping with stress is to identify stressors in your life and learn ways to direct and reduce them.  Allow yourself some “quiet time,” even if it’s just a few minutes and check and modify your thinking, especially unrealistic expectations.  Professional help can help you gain a new perspective on how to manage some of the more difficult forms of stress but if that’s not for you, other approaches to reducing stress include keeping a positive attitude, accepting that there are events you can’t control, and being assertive and not aggressive.  Eating well and again, exercise are also critical for maintaining a body that withstands the stresses of everyday life.