Poor Gut Health and the Link with Erectile Dysfunction

The gut is more than just a digestive system, it’s a central part of many health systems, including, mood, energy, and – perhaps surprisingly – sexual function. Growing evidence has shown a link between gut health and erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition that affects millions of men across the UK at some point in their lives. So, how does this imbalance in your gut affect performance in the bedroom?

The Role of Gut Health in the Body

Your gut does more than just process food. Home to trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the gut microbiome; your gut plays a vital role in most aspects of your health from immune function, digestion, hormone production, and mood regulation. While a healthy balance of gut health keeps the body in equilibrium, an imbalance in these microorganisms (dysbiosis), can lead to inflammation, metabolic disorders, hormonal imbalances, and even cardiovascular problems. All of these are known as risk factors contributing to erectile dysfunction.

The Gut-ED Connection

As touched upon above, there are few ways that poor gut health may contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Inflammation

Chronic low-grade inflammation, occasionally caused by unhealthy gut imbalances, can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow, a critical function when achieving and maintaining an erection.

Hormonal Imbalance

Gut heath plays a role in hormone regulation, including testosterone and oestrogen (the ‘sex hormones’). The gut microbiome can influence the body’s ability to metabolise and produce hormones. Poor gut health can potentially lead to lower testosterone levels, a common cause of decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.

Mental Health Connection

The gut-brain axis is a two-way communication system between your gut and your brain. Research has shown that poor gut health can contribute to mood changes such as anxiety and depression, both are major psychological contributors to ED. One study found that in men with erectile dysfunction, nearly 80% suffered from anxiety and/or depression, a clear indicator that psychological factors play a large role in ED: especially in younger men.

What You Can Do

Improving your gut health could play a supporting role in managing or preventing ED. Here are a few practical tips:

Erectile Dysfunction Treatments Available Online

While improving gut health may support your overall wellbeing and sexual performance, it’s not a guaranteed cure. Erectile dysfunction is often caused by a combination of physical and psychological factors, and a treatment is available to help.

The Bottom Line

Though research into the gut-erection connection is still emerging, the evidence so far points to a compelling link. Maintaining good gut health is not only essential for digestion and immunity, it might also be key to better performance in the bedroom.

If you’re experiencing persistent ED, don’t suffer in silence. Talk to a healthcare professional or explore safe and effective treatment options through our online pharmacy.