Erectile Dysfunction
Background
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability of a man to maintain a firm erection long enough to have sex. Although erectile dysfunction is more common in older men, this common problem can occur at any age. Having trouble maintaining an erection occasionally is normal and not a cause for concern. But if the problem is ongoing, it can cause stress and relationship problems and affect self-esteem.
Common Triggers
Emotional
Fear of not being able to have an erection often spoils the mood, as can emotional issues with one’s spouse. If you have an erection during sleep or when you wake, it is likely an emotional and not a physical problem (which is good).
Physical
Decreased testosterone production with age (see Testosterone Deficiency and Low Libido) can cause ED. Ask your physician if you are on a medication that can cause sexual dysfunction (e.g., blood pressure meds, anti-depressants) and ask for alternatives.
Treatments
Recommended Supplements to Support Healthy Sexual Function
Arginine (amino acid)
6,000 mg a day may help (available as a powder). Note that this may flare herpes.
Medications
Cialis®
Medications are very reasonable here. Cialis® is excellent for erectile dysfunction. It comes in 10 and 20 mg strengths. Dissolve under your tongue for quicker effect. The 5 mg tabs are actually the most economical, and sometimes just 1 is enough for the job. Hopefully, Viagra is also available as a low cost generic at 50-100 mg
Erection medications should not be used in conjunction with nitroglycerin, and they may cause problems in patients with heart disease.
Other Therapies & Advice
Optimize testosterone levels
Even if your blood levels are low normal, I recommend considering treatment if the total testosterone level is under 450, and I recommend you target increasing this to 800. Use only bioientical testosterone, and do not use injections. The subcutaneous pellets used by some holistic physicians works best, but more is NOT better. I suggest using about 1,200 mg of the pellets every 4 months. The topical creams are also OK. In men under 50, the medication clomiphene 25 mg a night can raise testosterone while maintaining fertility. (See Testosterone Deficiency.)
If you have diabetes
If you have diabetes, optimize nerve function with the a multivitamin powder (make sure it has vitamins B6, B12, Inositol, and magnesium for nerve function; such as the Fatigued to Fantastic™ Energy Revitalization Drink Mix) plus lipoic acid 300 mg 2x a day plus acetyl L-carnitine 1,000-1,500 mg a day. These may all help restore nerve function in diabetes. Give them 2-6 months to work.
More Information Online
Can Testosterone Be Good for You?
Enzymatic Therapy (more info on "Hot Plants" supplements at www.enzymatictherapy.com)