Coronary artery disease and erectile dysfunction

Coronary artery disease has been linked to being preceded by erectile dysfunction, according to a study at a St Louis university as far back as 2006. The study recommended that doctors “monitor heart health of patients with erectile dysfunction”.

Coronoary artery disease affects almost 322 million men worldwide and can be brought about by age, heart disease and hardening of the arteries. The 2006 study showed that the early signs of coronary artery disease can be preceded by erectile dysfunction, and usually show up about two or three years before onset of the disease.

Coronary artery disease and erectile dysfunction share the same risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, depression and lack of physical activity. The study, which involved 285 patients, found that of the group diagnosed with coronary artery disease 75 per cent suffered from erectile dysfunction. Many of the men had similar symptoms. Ninety-nine per cent of the men with both erectile dysfunction and coronary artery disease reported that erectile dysfunction had started about two years before the disease, so there does seem to be a firm link.

The outcome of the study was that men with erectile dysfunction should be watched closely for coronary artery disease as well as undergo a cardiovascular evaluation and even a change in lifestyle. It is true that psychological factors such as a fear of failure, inadequacy and inhibitions can often play an important part in erectile dysfunction, but even something as simple as a change in diet can assist in reducing the effects of the disease.

If you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction, a qualified therapist can also help you investigate your emotions surrounding the problem and help you learn tools like meditation and relaxation to assist. Often, focus and clarity on issues can be gained through meditation, as it stills the mind and assists you to look inward. The peacefulness it brings can also help you move your outlook into a more positive light. A lifestyle change is also important, as outside stress factors contribute to the problem.

In your diet, you should place emphasis on seeds and nuts, such as sesame, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, almonds and peanuts. Good cereals to incorporate into your diet are buckwheat, millet and oats, which will energise your body, and high-calcium foods like cottage cheese. which will help cholesterol levels. Halva is also beneficial and fruit and vegetable juices will increase your energy levels. Be sure to use cold-pressed vegetable oils like olive, soy, sunflower and sesame seed. Sprouted seeds, grains, kelp, lecithin and avocado are also good foods. If you have sinus, however, steer clear of dairy.

Also watch out for meat and poultry containing the growth hormone dietylstilbestrol. which can destroy virility. Avoid smoking and alcohol, all refined and processed foods, and try and get some fresh air — out of the city.

Regarding supplements, zinc is perhaps one of the most important minerals for male virility. A deficiency in zinc is not only associated with impotency but also prostrate disorders. Zinc is lacking in many processed foods. The best dietary sources of zinc are whole, unrefined grains and seeds (sunflower and pumpkin seeds), brewers yeast, oysters, eggs and onions.

Good vitamins and supplements are vitamin E, wheat-germ oil and wheat germ, PABA, folic acid, vitamin C, fish-liver oil, a high-potency B complex and a good multivitamin formula for men. Useful herbs are Ginseng, Gotu-Kola, Sarsaparilla and Golden Seal. Remember that supplements should never be purchased without an assessment from a qualified natural practitioner.

Exercise is also important to increase your endorphins and keep you fit and trim, which will impact on your self-esteem. Try to exercise at least three times a week and maybe even try yoga or tai chi, which are both excellent for balancing the body’s energies.