European Journal of Sports & Exercise Science
Abstract
Author(s): Abdulsalam Abdullah, Abubakar Umar, A. M. Abdulkadir, Jacinta A. Opara and Olushola F. Ajibola
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is one of the many results of degenerative lifestyles which includes lack of exercise, poor fitness and poor nutrition, which most often results from poor circulation. Exercise, fitness and proper nutrition can improve vascular health and reverse or control the factors that contribute to erectile dysfunction. Men who are fit and exercise vigorously for 20 to 30 minutes per day are said to be less likely to have erection problems as inactive men. The incidence of ED was said to be common among of men aged 18 to 59 years., and higher among men with certain medical disorders such as diabetes mellitus, heart disease, hypertension, and decreased HDL levels. Exercise has also shown to regulate blood sugar by increasing the amount of energy utilized and helps maintain a healthy weight and body composition, in addition, to an increase in testosterone levels which enhances libido in the male.
Men who are physically inactive are more likely to develop prostate cancer, and fitness appeared to have an impact towards lowering the risk of developing prostate cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress and making healthy food and beverage choices, can have a positive effect on a man�¢����s ability to achieve and maintain an erection.
Excess body fat is clearly related to several health problems, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus(type II), and certain forms of cancers, all of which are detrimental to penal erectile functioning. Men who typically consume foods that promote inflammation and contain cancer-promoting substances; that is high in fat, lots of red meat, and one that is low in fibre, fruits, and vegetables, have a higher risk of developing ED than men who do not eat these foods. Eating foods that contain folic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin E support the pathways that lead to the release of nitric oxide and the promotion of erectile functioning. Alcohol abuse in men, for instance, had been found to cause a disruption in testosterone production and shrinkage of the testes.
