In our country alone, erectile dysfunction affects nearly 30 million men and is one of the more common problems men face. There are several physical and emotional causes of erectile dysfunction, including risk factors like increasing age, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and alcohol. However, it is not something that is not manageable after the first diagnosis. In fact, several erectile dysfunction superfoods help men improve their libido and performance. Here are some of the popular foods and beverages that help manage the symptoms early on in the diagnosis:

1. Bananas
Bananas are naturally rich in flavonoids, a powerful plant compound beneficial for the overall health of the body. Studies have shown that flavonoids mainly help improve blood pressure and makes the arteries more flexible, enhancing blood flow to vital organs. Uninterrupted blood flow is essential to maintain an erection. Fruits rich in flavonoids like apples, pears, citrus fruits, and berries are superfoods that help reduce the chances of erectile dysfunction naturally.

2. Peppers
Hot peppers are rich in a natural compound called capsaicin, which gives the pepper its heat and spice. Research shows that men who prefer spicy food have higher levels of testosterone in comparison to men who don’t prefer spicy food. Chili peppers help increase heart rate and release endorphins in the body. Capsaicin also helps reduce cholesterol and control blood pressure to maintain optimum flow to the vital organs. Peppers are popular options in the list of erectile dysfunction superfoods.

3. Cruciferous vegetables
Several green vegetables are loaded with vitamin C, which is known to boost blood circulation. Studies show that improved blood circulation automatically helps increase libido and energy levels. Brussel sprouts, kale, cauliflower, and cabbage are also rich in compounds that stimulate hormones to excrete estradiol, another effective testosterone-boosting component. One serving of cruciferous vegetables daily can help prevent the conversion of testosterone to estrogen and help boost a man’s libido with increased testosterone.

4. Dark chocolate
Chocolate is often called one of the best aphrodisiacs. It shouldn’t surprise one that dark chocolate is one of the prime erectile dysfunction superfoods. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that help lower blood pressure and manage cholesterol. Together, these functions help improve blood circulation throughout the body. Many studies have shown that men who eat dark chocolate regularly face a low risk of suffering from erectile dysfunction. It also stimulates the production of nitric oxide in the body, one of the essential compounds to help men sustain an erection for longer periods and improve overall libido.

5. Pomegranates
Studies have shown that men who drank a glass of pomegranate juice daily for two weeks straight show improved levels of testosterone. The juice also helped control blood pressure and improved their overall mood.

6. Red wine
Wine, consumed in moderation, is good for the body. Red wine reduces the risk of suffering from erectile dysfunction as it is rich in nitric oxide, which is crucial for relaxing the arteries and improving blood circulation.