Study: 10 Factors Affect Men's Sexual Health

Research has shown that sexual dysfunction is more common among men with emotional problems. But not only that. 10 key factors, according to experts, significantly influence the sexual health of representatives of strong status.

Sexual health is an important part of men's well-being. But alas, he is extremely negatively affected stress and sedentary lifestyle, poor diet and other factors. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, an urologist and surgeon at Orlando Hospital and an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine, draws men's attention to the key ones, tells CNN Greece, and offers a solution.

Chronic stress is the main cause of low libido and erectile dysfunction. And it doesn’t matter what caused it – problems at work or in the family. In this condition, the body produces increased levels of cortisol, a hormone that affects testosterone production.

Research has convincingly demonstrated that Men with stress or emotional problems are more likely to experience sexual dysfunction in the form of premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and low sexual desire.

It is very important to include stress reduction activities in your daily routine: regular exercise, adequate sleep, meditation, hobbies you enjoy. Seeking professional help can also provide effective coping strategies.

Bad eating habits can lead to obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular problems, which negatively affects sexual function. Research shows: men with a waist circumference greater than 101 cm are at greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which is associated with erectile dysfunction.

Taking a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains can make a real difference. Limiting your alcohol consumption and avoiding highly processed foods can further improve your sexual health. In other words, the more fast food you eat, the faster you will lose your sexual health.

Lack of physical activity harmful to heart health, which is vital for maintaining sexual function. Regular exercise helps improve blood flow, which is effective in achieving and maintaining an erection. Research shows that men who exercise regularly report improved erectile function compared to sedentary men.

The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. Add strength training to this to keep your body in tip-top shape.

Smoking is the main cause of erectile dysfunction due to its negative effects on blood vessels and blood flow. The toxins in cigarettes can damage the lining of blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the penis. Research shows that men who smoke are about twice as likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction as non-smokers. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your sexual health.

Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea*, can seriously affect testosterone levels and lead to sexual dysfunction. One study found that men with severe sleep apnea had significantly lower testosterone levels than those without the condition. It is important to prioritize good sleep hygiene.

Mental health problemssuch as depression and anxiety, can have a profound impact on sexual desire and performance. About 20% of patients with anxiety and up to 40% of men with depression report some form of sexual dysfunction. Mental health problems can lead to decreased libido and difficulty getting or maintaining an erection.

Hormonal imbalance, especially low testosterone levels, negatively affects sexual health. Testosterone levels are known to decline with age, but conditions such as hypogonadism** can speed up this process. Research shows that One in five men over 60 years of age has low testosterone levels. Regular checkups will help monitor hormone levels, and treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, or hormone replacement therapy to restore balance.

Side effects of some medications, including hypertension and depression, can cause sexual dysfunction. Beta blockers, for example, can reduce libido and lead to erection problems. It is important to discuss possible side effects with your doctor, who can help you adjust your dosage or suggest a different drug with less impact on your sexual health.

Chronic diseases – diabetes, heart and kidney disease – can significantly affect sexual function. Men with diabetes are three times more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction compared to men without diabetes. You should adhere to the prescribed treatment, lead a healthy lifestyle and regularly monitor yourself to keep the condition under control.

Relationship problems may cause anxiety and decreased sexual desire. Communication breakdowns, unresolved conflicts and lack of intimacy contribute to sexual dysfunction. Open communication with your partner is the key to solving these problems.

*Delays in breathing movements are called apnea. The word is taken from the ancient Greek language and literally means “calm.” This condition can occur in various situations – for example, after hyperventilation or a sharp increase in blood pressure. Holding your breath is caused by attacks of bronchial asthma or whooping cough, as well as some other diseases. But most often people experience sleep apnea.

In adults, it is associated with snoring: a person snores evenly for some time, then silence sets in, lasting about 5-10 seconds, followed by a loud snore, and the sleeper begins to toss and turn restlessly. During a night's sleep, some patients have up to two hundred such stops. As a rule, a person with apnea is unaware of his condition or considers it normal. However, regular breath holdings do not pass without a trace, because at this time the body does not receive the oxygen it needs. The brain suffers the most, but oxygen starvation also negatively affects the functioning of the heart.

**Hypogonadism is a pathological process provoked by a lack of male sex hormones, which is characterized by underdevelopment of the genital organs and secondary sexual characteristics.

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