What Causes Erectile Dysfunction? Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatments Explained
Clara Hanson Smith
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition affecting over 50% of men between 40 and 70 in the UK…
3 min read time
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Is Obesity Affecting Your Sex Life?
Obesity is commonly known as a medical condition and is becoming an epidemic of the 21st century. Obesity is one of today’s most blatantly visible – yet most neglected – public health problems all across the world. The term obese describes a person who is very overweight, with excess body fat. Medically you are considered obese when your body mass index (BMI) is 30kg or more.
It is now becoming a common problem is the UK that’s estimated to affect half the British public.
Being obese increases your risk of developing several health conditions, including erectile dysfunction (ED). ED is the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex. ED is very common in men of any age. Many studies have proved that men who are obese have a higher risk factor of developing ED.
It’s not unusual for men with a large amount of excess body fat to have lower-than-normal testosterone levels that may require treatment. Testosterone is a sex hormone that plays a vital role in the body. It is known to help a man’s bone density, muscle strength and mass, red blood cell production and sex drive. In fact, low testosterone is closely linked to an increased risk of low libido, suggesting it is a potential factor for ED and weight gain. Research suggests that 1 in every three men with ED can also have low testosterone levels.
The Good News!
Losing weight may be the best way to improve general health, restore a robust erectile function and keep a healthy BMI. One study looked at the relationship between weight loss and ED. It showed that with the help of weight loss treatment, eating a calorie-deficit diet and exercising throughout the week was more effective. More than 30% of the men regained sexual confidence and lost weight.
If you struggle to lose weight and tried many methods in the past. There are two approved weight loss medications used in the UK. Orlistat is a daily capsule that helps you lose 50% more weight than dieting alone, and Saxenda, is a daily self-administered injection which is clinically proven. You can also purchase cheap sildenafil or cheap tadalafil from The Family Chemist to help you retain a solid erection.
These are not available to purchase over the counter but can be approved by a GP or a pharmacist. For advice, speak to The Family Chemist clinician for treatments such as weight loss injections and erectile dysfunction.
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