For men experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED), exercising regularly can be nearly as effective as ED medications, such as Viagra (sildenafil), in improving performance, according to a new study. Researchers say that the benefits of exercise include other sexual performance benefits as well.
- Aerobic exercise is nearly as effective at addressing erectile dysfunction (ED) as medications for the condition and is safe and less expensive, a new meta-study finds.
- The greatest sexual performance gains observed in the study occurred for men with the most severe erectile dysfunction.
- Erectile dysfunction is related to cardiovascular health and can be improved using the same forms of exercise that promote heart health.
- The study is a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled studies, making its conclusions highly credible.
A new study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine suggests that aerobic exercise can be just as effective as medications like Viagra in improving erectile function. An analysis of the data found that aerobic activities, such as walking or cycling, improved erectile function in all men with erectile dysfunction, regardless of body weight, overall health, or medication use. The greatest benefit was seen in men with the most severe erectile dysfunction.
The study, led by Larry E. Miller, PhD, analyzed 11 randomized, controlled trials involving a total of 1,100 men. The participants were assigned to either an exercise group or a control group with no exercise plan. The researchers found that the more severe the erectile dysfunction, the more exercise helped. Men with severe erectile dysfunction who exercised reported a five-point improvement in erectile function, while those with mild and moderate erectile dysfunction saw improvements of two and three points respectively.
The findings are significant because erectile dysfunction is often linked to cardiovascular health issues such as inflammation, narrowing of the arteries, and hardening of the arteries. The study suggests that aerobic exercise which enhances cardiovascular health may also have a positive impact on erectile health.
The National Institutes of Health arrived at a similar conclusion. It recommends supervised physical activity to decrease arterial ED consisting of aerobic exercise of moderate to vigorous intensity four times per week for 40 minutes. In a review of 10 independent studies, the NIH found that an overall weekly exercise dose of 160 minutes for 6 months contributes to a decrease of ED for men with arterial ED due to physical inactivity, obesity, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and/or manifest cardiovascular diseases.
Urologists not involved in the study believe that the results make sense. They point out that while erectile dysfunction medications are generally affordable and accessible, some patients may not want to take them or may not be able to tolerate the side effects which may include sensitivity to light, muscle aches, heartburn, problems falling asleep, headache, and diarrhea.
Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, may also cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include chest pain, fainting, sudden loss of vision, sudden loss of or decrease in hearing, and burning during urination. A high-fat meal may delay how quickly the drug begins to work. The dosage is based on the person’s medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications being taken. Contraindication is possible with other prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements.
Exercise, on the other hand, is low risk and affordable, making it an ideal first-line treatment option. This study provides evidence that promotes aerobic activity as part of erectile dysfunction management. It suggests that exercise can be a viable alternative or complementary approach to medications for improving erectile function, especially for those who are unwilling or unable to use medications.
Men suffering from erectile dysfunction should first be evaluated by a medical professional for any underlying physical and psychological conditions. Always consult with a physician before attempting aerobic exercises, taking medications or using assistive devices, such as pumps.