The penis, like any other organ in the body depends on an adequate and sustained blood supply. This is necessary to maintain the integrity of its tissues. The process of an erection provides the maximum blood flow to the penis. An erection brings large amounts of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues of the penis. As such the connective tissue of the penis as well as the walls of the blood vessels which supply the penis are optimally nourished and maintained. Waste products of cellular metabolism are removed.

Regular (safe) sexual activity therefore, is obviously an important part of the penis prosperity plan. In addition, an improved sleeping pattern is also very important. A good night’s sleep implies that one would experience a greater number of nighttime erections. In addition sleep also recharges the batteries of the body. This provides more energy for an active sexual life.

Erections therefore are good for the penis. More erections mean more oxygen, nutrients and blood flow to the penis. Over time this prevents tissue damage, and shrinkage of the organ.

Cholesterol

Like any blood vessel in the body, arteries of the penis are affected by what we eat. Keeping arteries clear and healthy is therefore a particularly important part of the penis prosperity programme. There is a strong link between high HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels and a low incidence of erectile problems. It is essential therefore, to reduce the amount of saturated and polyunsaturated fat in your diet. Monounsaturated fat, can actually lower overall cholesterol levels while keeping the good cholesterol high.

Fats

While keeping your total intake of fat under 30 percent of your total calories, try substituting monounsaturated fats, found in olive oil, nuts and avocado pear, for saturated fats, found in butter, meats and many processed foods. Magnesium and anti-oxident vitamins, like vitamins C and A, may have a protective effect against vascular disease. The best natural source for this blood vessel healthy combination of anti-oxidants is found in leafy green vegetables like spinach and cabbage, and also broccoli and cauliflower. Toss a few leaves of spinach on your tuna sandwich in place of lettuce, or make your salad using spinach and dandelion greens.

Sugars

Metabolise your sugars better. Chromium, a trace mineral scarce in foods, works hand-in-hand with insulin to keep your blood sugar levels stable. This may help prevent the development of adult-onset diabetes, which is one of the biggest risk factors for erectile problems. As chromium is scanty in the daily diet of most people, chromium supplements, (preferably of 200 micrograms a day) as found in many multivitamin supplements are required. Alcohol in moderation is a vasodilator – it opens up blood vessels – and is therefore good for penile blood flow. It also relaxes the body and makes it more receptive to meaningful and effective sexual activity. Too much alcohol, however, is toxic to the body, and by affecting the liver, nerves, vitamin status and testes, it may cause impotence as well as a host of other health problems.

Obesity is one of the most significant factor for developing adult onset diabetes, which in turn is associated with erectile dysfunction. In addition the diet associated with achieving an overweight state is very often blood vessel unfriendly. Those few extra kilograms also play a significant role in creating a high blood pressure as well as heart disease.With all these conditions linked positively to erectile difficulties, it only makes sense to drop any extra kilograms you may be carrying. In addition, a training regimen based around fat burning and increasing lean body weight, by building muscle, is an essential part of a long term penis prosperity plan. Aerobic exercise is also an essential part of this part of the plan. Anything that gets your heart rate up brings your risk of developing diabetes down in two ways: Activity burns calories and so fights obesity, and elevating your heart rate will help your body process sugars more efficiently. A lean body is also a sexier body.

A negative mindset can have disastrous implications for your sexual well being. Not only does depression destroy libido, but chronic frustration and anger have also been associated with an increased risk of erectile problems. Stress in any form releases stress hormones, like adrenaline, which acts on the blood vessels to the penis, constricting them, and thus decreasing the potential to achieve an erection. Long term stress also increases the risk of high blood pressure, which can damage the arteries to the penis and create long term erectile problems. It is easy to see how a “vicious cycle” of depression -> erection problems -> frustration -> anger -> further depression can become established in a man’s life.Maintaining a generally positive mental attitude and asserting yourself in a creative and positive fashion, makes you feel good about your abilities, helps depression, and keeps you positive about life in general. Speak your mind, and engage people in constructive debate about issues you don’t agree, or are uncomfortable with. If you feel that the whims of others are dictating your life and lifestyle, don’t sit passively by. Take charge and control of those issues which you can influence. Don’t let your unsubstantiated fear of rejection ultimately turn you into a sexual cripple. Avoiding or breaking the vicious cycle must be a proactive and forceful part of a man’s mental health programme.

The side effects of so many medicines can cause erection problems, particularly in older men. Some of the biggest culprits are antihypertensives, antidepressants, ulcer medications and antihistamines. One of the biggest causes of erection problems could therefore be lurking just behind your bathroom mirror. Remember though, never to stop taking your medication without the permission of your doctor.