Anteneh Roba MD
70% of men have admitted to experiencing erectile dysfunction at some point, and decreased nitric oxide production is one of the common causes. ED affects more than 150 million men worldwide and is caused by a variety of psychological and physiological factors such as smoking, aging, illicit drug use, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Nitric oxide has many functions but today I am going to focus on its function as a signaling molecule that relaxes the small muscles in our blood vessels, allowing increased blood flow through the vessel. In relation to ED, when nitric oxide levels in the penis increase, the penile blood also increases which can lead to an erection. Men’s bodies naturally produce nitric oxide, but production declines with age. Research has shown that by 40, men can lose up to 50% of their nitric oxide levels. NO’s role as a vasodilator; relaxes the inner muscles of your blood vessels (including the ones in your penis) allowing them to widen. It also plays a role in almost every cellular and organ function in your body as it’s converted to nitrate.
Low testosterone is a common reason for making an erection more difficult. Some men may notice a drop in libido while others may completely lose interest in sex. Testosterone Therapy might be just the right treatment in this case. Testosterone can boost your NO levels. If you have low Testosterone, this therapy will increase your testosterone levels and in turn, increase your levels of nitric oxide.
The best way to boost nitric oxide naturally is to include leafy vegetables; Kale, Cabbage, Beets and Spinach in your diet and daily, exercise regularly, and make sure your testosterone levels are in balance with other hormones. I also recommend certain supplements that can drastically make a difference. Testosterone is a very important player in the nitric oxide system, but please ensure you follow a plan with a licensed physician. I am available for consultations in my clinic or have the telehealth option as well. Contact me to learn more.