Over the years, there have been many suggested solutions for impotence and associated conditions which can cause problems in the bedroom.
A pharmaceutical company placed the ‘little blue pill’ on the market, which became the saviour of relationships globally- Kathryn Borg
The basic problem goes back in time and a variety of ‘cures’ have been offered. They include the venom of the world’s deadliest spider to breast milk. Then, a pharmaceutical company placed the ‘little blue pill’ on the market, which became the saviour of relationships globally.
However, as with most medications, the solution came with side effects, some of them serious, some inconvenient. Hugh Hefner, the founder of Playboy was reported to have said he “couldn’t be living his life without it”. He is also said to be suffering from hearing loss, something that has been reported across the media where a sharp journalist linked this side effect to using the ‘little blue pill’ regularly.
Other more serious side effects include heart attack, stroke, unstable angina and high blood pressure. More common are headaches, dizziness, flushing, visual disorders, indigestion and nasal congestion.
So what are the changes one could make, without the worrying side effects, to try to solve these problems before looking at medication?
Initially, we must look at lifestyle, in particular diet. Studies have suggested that a Mediterranean diet can improve erectile dysfunction (J. Sex Med., 2010). The following foods are considered most beneficial: fruits like apples, berries, peaches, grapefruit, melons, strawberries and tomatoes; vegetables including celery, broccoli, artichokes, lettuce, peppers, aubergines and sweet potatoes; fish including the oily fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel and trout; poultry such as chicken and turkey; and nuts including almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews, pine nuts and pecans.
In addition, extra virgin olive oil, herbs and spices, such as garlic, oregano, mint, parsley and coriander; seeds such as sunflower, pumpkin and sesame; legumes such as chickpeas, green and red lentils and beans. Avoid red meat, too much alcohol and eat wholegrain bread, cereals, rice and pasta.
Processed foods are not included and the diet is a very natural one. In fact, it is very much a basic Maltese diet without the addition of highly processed, fast food.
The second part of the lifestyle changes need to include exercise. A study has shown that aerobic exercise can benefit men with erectile dysfunction (Ethiop. J. Health Sci., 2011). Therefore, include more walking, running, cycling or swimming several times a week.
Depending on your fitness level, one of these options could be followed, with a plan to increase the intensity. Stress, depression and other mental health problems can all have an effect. If necessary, professional help, or counselling, should be sought, to deal with life’s stress or relationship issues.
Alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs all have a huge effect. It is probably worth avoiding them for at least three months to assess the effects on health. Weight has been shown by research to have a detrimental effect on sex life. According to studies, men with larger waist sizes are more likely to suffer from problems compared with men with smaller waists (BJU Int., 2012). The aim to lose around two to three inches around the waist area could lead to a significant improvement, as reported by this study.
Medication or drugs may also cause impotence or other problems. The most common drugs are diuretics, anti-depressants, antihistamines, NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, anti-hypertensives, anti-epileptic and drugs for cancer, such as chemotherapy. There are others, but it is always best to speak to a consultant or GP.
Finally, there are additional supplements, many of which have been the subject of studies and research: ginkgo biloba is an extract from the leaves of the ginkgo tree. This supplement is probably more well known for supporting memory loss and glaucoma.
Elderly patients who were taking this for another trial were found to be gaining unexpected additional benefits and, therefore, prompted a further trial (Altern. Med. Rev., 2004). Some trials found positive effects on all phases of the sexual response cycle (J. Sex Marital Ther., 1998). Some trials found minor side effects, such as headaches and an upset stomach.
Carnitine is more well known to body-builders and those working out in a gym. It is an amino acid type substance that helps the body turn fat into energy. It is naturally found in red meat, fish poultry, avocados and peanut butter. However, it is more commonly used as a weight-loss aid and body-building supplement.
An Italian study found a combination of two forms of carnitine improved erectile dysfunction in elderly men whose problem was linked to low testosterone levels. The supplement worked even better than the standard testosterone treatments (Urology, 2004).
When taking high doses, it can have mild side effects, such as diarrhea, increased appetite or rash. Also, it is a supplement that should be discussed with your GP, especially if taking other medications.
When looking for alternatives to the ‘little blue pill’, there are a whole host of natural options. It may be safer to try them first.
kathryn@maltanet.net