Erectile Dysfunction, also known as ED, is a common problem for men. Nearly half of all men will suffer with some type of ED, mild or severe, during their lifetime. ED is a condition that affects a man’s ability to achieve or maintain a full erection. The condition can lead to stress, guilt, and depression, as well as relationship problems. The reasons for having ED could either be physical or psychological, with about 70% of cases relating to physical causes.

The psychological causes include depression, anxiety, stress, as well as any other type of mental problems. The physical causes can include kidney issues, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, hormonal changes caused by aging, nutritional deficiencies, and obesity.

Luckily there are many natural things you can try at home to help treat erectile dysfunction:

1. Eat an erectile dysfunction diet

The old saying, “You are what you eat” holds true here. If you want your body to function well, you have to eat well. A few items to add to your diet to help with your ED should include almonds, garlic, carrots, and pomegranate juice.

There are also herbs and supplements for impotence you can take daily to help with your ED, such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), gingko, red ginseng, horny goat weed (epimedium), L-arginine, and yohimbine.

2. Reduce your stress

Our daily lives are filled with stress and many of us work in high stress jobs. It can be hard to leave it all at the office and the effects of stress can weigh heavily on your mind and body. Try to reduce your stress level by taking some time for yourself each day to decompress. Or you can try going for a short walk, having a warm bath, swimming, acupuncture, and breathing techniques.

3. Exercise regularly

One of the leading causes of ED is obesity. Whether this is an issue for you or not, getting regular exercise is always good for your body. Physical activity will help improve your heart while also improving your blood flow. Exercise encourages the release of endorphins, which will help increase your libido. Blood flow to your penis is also increased through exercise, which will help you get and maintain an erection. Exercise also makes us feel good about ourselves, which will help with any depression or anxiety you may be experiencing that is influencing ED.

4. Get plenty of sleep

Just like with most issues in our bodies, sleep is important for treating ED. When you sleep, your body has a chance to repair itself and rejuvenate its cells for the next day. While you are sleeping your body produces testosterone, which is critical for your sexual reproductive system to work at its best. If you have low levels of testosterone, a lack of sleep could be partially to blame. Get at least 6-8 hours of sleep each night.

The key is to take care of your body and mind. Doing this will help your body function properly and should help with your erectile dysfunction.