Can Too Much Sugar Cause Problems in the Bedroom?
September 30, 2021
The answer is yes. When the pancreas is constantly having to manage more blood glucose than the body needs for fuel, the extra energy is stored as body fat. Early problems often start with unintentional weight gain. But even in those who don’t gain weight, high blood sugar levels can cause serious damage to their body. When their pancreas begins to overcompensate, it produces too much insulin. Over time, the body’s metabolism can suffer permanent damage. In turn, this can lead to hardening of the blood vessels (atherosclerosis) or prediabetes. Nonetheless, continuing to consume too much sugar can negatively impact one’s sexual health making problems like erectile dysfunction worse.
Any inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sex is considered to be erectile dysfunction. Although not all problems experienced with erectile function are due to consuming too much sugar, men who do have problems with long-term blood sugar control are more apt to suffer with health conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease. It is true that erectile dysfunction often occurs earlier in men with diabetes but experiencing difficulties maintaining an erection can even precede a diagnosis of diabetes. Fortunately, doing a better job of managing one’s blood sugar levels can help prevent additional nerve and blood vessel damage.
Problems Controlling Blood Sugar Levels Can Worsen ED
It also is common for men with high blood glucose levels to suffer from other chronic conditions that can cause or worsen erectile dysfunction. Since sexual problems can have a negative impact on a relationship with an intimate partner, the onset of anxiety and stress can signal your body to produce and release cortisol hormone, which can make matters worse. However, you shouldn’t underestimate the difference a few changes can make in your life and in the bedroom. Cutting out sugary drinks, such as sodas and fancy coffees, as well as reducing your consumption of foods that are loaded with added sugars, such as processed foods and baked goods, can help you manage blood sugar levels.
Since alcoholic drinks can have lots of hidden sugar, try limiting or cutting out alcohol as it can contribute to erectile dysfunction. According to Mayo Clinic online, if you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For healthy adult men, that means up to one drink per day for a man older than age 65, and up to two drinks a day for men ages 65 and younger. Moreover, since the treatment of pre-diabetes and diabetes rely heavily on managing lifestyle issues, positive dietary changes will not only help to lower blood sugar levels, but in doing so will help restore good sexual health and reduce your risk of erectile dysfunction. Studies have proven that better glucose control can improve the quality of erections and increase sexual pleasure.
Treatment Options & Other Considerations
To permanently improve your sexual health, start by avoiding off-the-cuff and potentially dangerous side-effects associated with sudden or abrupt changes. Random acts followed by inconsistent behavior can actually make your problems with erectile function even worse. Since too much sugar in your blood can affect ED in numerous ways, make an appointment with Dr. Earl Eye to discuss a holistic approach to treating your unique conditions. With over 40 years’ experience, Dr. Eye is certified in multiple specialties including internal medicine. Poor blood glucose control can cause microvascular damage to blood vessels in the penis making it more difficult to have and maintain a healthy erection.
At GAINSWave Jacksonville, Dr. Eye currently practices comprehensive, individualized, precision medicine and offers state-of-the-art services to help men live healthier and enjoy more vibrant sex lives. He and his staff use a non-invasive approach for treating erectile dysfunction that includes extracorporeal shock wave therapy to improve blood flow by eliminating the buildup of plague in the penis. Low intensity shockwave therapy triggers the body to repair, rebuild and rejuvenate penal tissue. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for treating ED. Call today to learn more about the multiple options you may have for improving your sexual health and performance.
