Alcohol abuse, stress, smoking and lack of sleep can all play a role in the functioning of a man’s penis. But it’s not just your lifestyle habits that influence the health of your manhood, but also your diet. We know that a healthy body contributes to a healthy reproductive body.
It’s not just your ability to get an erection and maintain it during intercourse that counts. (Of course, strong erections can mean a stormy sex life.) Sperm count, sex drive, even prostate cancer risk are also affected by what a man piles on his plate. A few simple changes in food choice can make a difference, so start adding these 5 ingredients to your meals – and avoid some others for the health of your penis. And if you want to go further , discover the 20 foods for a top libido!
Huile d’olive
You’ve heard of the heart-healthy benefits of olive oil. But a recent study has revealed that its benefits extend to the bedroom too. Researchers at the University of Athens School of Medicine in Greece found that men who replaced butter with olive oil while following a Mediterranean diet saw marked improvements in their sexual health. In fact, the scientists declared that olive oil may even be better than Viagra when it comes to combating erectile dysfunction.
“As a polyunsaturated fat, olive oil has known cardio-protective effects,” explains Dr. Turek. “We don’t know the exact mechanism, but it’s good for the blood vessels in the heart and penis.”
Huîtres
Of course, they have a reputation as an aphrodisiac, although there’s no proof that these bivalves have any real effect on the libido. What they can do, however, is keep your body hard. Oysters are rich in zinc, which promotes erections. Zinc is also an essential building block of testosterone. It therefore supports libido and sperm production.
Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food,” says Kristin Koskinen, nutrition dietitian. Beef, other shellfish such as lobster and crab, and pumpkin seeds are other good food sources of zinc.
Saumon
This pink fish is one of the most nutrient-rich foods on the planet, and is particularly rich in health-promoting omega-3 fatty acids. A recent study revealed that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids could help prevent veno-occlusive body dysfunction (VOD). What is CVOD? This condition is a major cause of erectile dysfunction.
Salmon contains mega-3 mega-acids, as do other fatty fish such as mackerel and sardines. If your partner isn’t a fan of the fish counter, there are other sources such as dark leafy vegetables, nuts and hemp seeds.
Tomates
Tomatoes get their rich red color from an antioxidant called lycopene. Antioxidants are a major weapon used by your body to fight cell-damaging free radicals.
Lycopene “is one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants,” says Dr. Turek. “Oxidants are thought to underlie much of male infertility and prostate cancer, and we know that antioxidants are good for blood vessels in the heart and penis. But their exact mechanisms of action are not well defined. Nevertheless, eat more tomatoes and tomato-based foods, from spaghetti sauce to gazpacho.
Poivre de Cayenne
“Spicy foods can improve vasodilation,” Koskinen explains, meaning they help blood vessels widen, allowing blood to flow more easily. And since an erection is entirely linked to blood flow in the penis, more vasodilation can certainly help a man achieve it more easily. (Some erectile dysfunction medications are actually vasodilators). “Try mixing cayenne pepper into sauces to season fish and meat, or into soups or stews,” she suggests. “You can also add tacos, eggs and even salads to spicy chillies.”
Les aliments que vous devriez éviter
Foods rich in omega-3 and unsaturated fatty acids are good for his penis, and those containing saturated or trans fatty acids rank low. Some examples: anything fried, many types of deli meats and bacon, among others,” explains Dr. Turek. The category of unhealthy foods also includes sodium-rich foods, which can cause high blood pressure and compromise cardiovascular health.
Obesity has been linked to erectile dysfunction, which is an excellent reason for men to avoid foods that can lead to weight gain, such as sodas, sugary items and packaged goods.
Yes, as usual, all the guilty, slimy pleasure foods are the ones the experts advise avoiding. A simple rule for men to follow is: for a fit penis, eat healthy.
