Sexual dysfunction such as premature ejaculation (PE), and erectile dysfunction (ED), can be very complex and brought on by several different factors within your life. Generally, PE and ED aren’t something you have forever, but can come and go depending on your circumstances and lifestyle choices. In fact, there’s a few lifestyle factors that can contribute to sexual dysfunction. Below we’ve broken down some simple lifestyle switches you can make that could be helpful in achieving a healthier sex life.
Engage in physical activity
Moving your body can make you feel great, and it can also have major benefits on your health – mental, physical, and sexual. For adults, being active can help manage or reduce the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels and even reduce the risk of some cancers.1 These conditions can all contribute to symptoms of sexual dysfunction, so it’s important to stay healthy. It also helps to prevent unhealthy weight gain, as obesity is a lifestyle factor that can contribute to sexual dysfunction. The department of health recommends 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate intensity physical activity – such as a brisk walk, golf, mowing the lawn or swimming.
Eat your 2 and 5
Including healthy fruits and veggies in your diet is a really simple way to help your heart and sexual health. Eating excessive unhealthy food can contribute to obesity, and this in turn can contribute to sexual dysfunction. You can also make sure you’re eating from the five food groups – vegetables, grains, fruits, lean meats and dairy and alternatives.
Reduce smoking
Smoking can impact your sexual health and quitting, or even reducing the amount of cigarettes smoked, can be beneficial. It may take some time, but ultimately it can lead to a healthier life and reduce your risk to conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. These conditions all make you more susceptible to sexual dysfunction. We understand it takes a lot to quit something but reducing smoking can mean you live a healthier lifestyle and can positively impact your sexual health. If you need help quitting smoking, you can visit websites like I Can Quit for support and resources.
Manage your mental health
Stress, anxiety, and depression can be some of the most common causes of ED and PE. If you’re struggling with your mental health, it’s important to speak to a health professional and seek help. Check out our blog post on mental health tips from our resident doctor and useful resources.
Sexual dysfunction is more common than you think.
If it’s affecting your daily life there is help available. Ready to find out more about Optimale Health? Call us directly on (02) 8610 1888 or take our questionnaire here.
