Erectile Dysfunction: Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

There are now a number of studies that suggest a link between erectile dysfunction and obesity. By maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly, you may be able to prevent erectile dysfunction or improve the condition.

Here are some tips to get you started. If obesity is a serious problem for you, talk to your doctor about a more rigorous treatment plan.

• Eat a healthy diet. A diet that limits saturated fat intake and includes several portions of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can benefit men with ED.
• Reduce cholesterol. High cholesterol can harden, narrow, or block the arteries (atherosclerosis) leading to the penis. Men can lower cholesterol through diet, exercise, and medication.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly. Regular exercise may reduce the risk of ED. Choose exercises that you enjoy. In addition to reducing the risk of ED, exercise also can help you manage stress. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

Reviewed by the doctors at the Glickman Urological Institute at The Cleveland Clinic.