Erectile dysfunction abbreviated as ED is a health condition where a man is not able to keep or achieve an erection. According to research, this problem affects well over 30 percent of men aged between forty and seventy years. Various studies have been conducted to bring into the open the causes of ED. Most of these studies have found that low testosterone levels, depression, side effects of medication and neurological problems are among the common causes of erectile dysfunction. The main and overriding cause, cited by most researchers, is inadequate flow of blood to the penile tissue. This is caused by a problem in the blood vessels referred to as atherosclerosis.
Nitric Oxide Health Benefits and the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction
Atherosclerosis and Its Inhibitory Impact
Atherosclerosis refers to the process through which plaque accumulates on the internal wall of arteries thus narrowing the blood vessels and limiting the blood flow. Since ED occurs as a consequence of inhibited blood flow, it is now categorized not only as a problem on its own but also as an early warning sign of impending heart attack or stroke.
How Nitric Oxide Combats Erectile Dysfunctions
Nitric oxide plays a pivotal role in cardiovascular functions. It has a number of constructive benefits that lead to a relaxation of blood vessels. Nitric oxide promotes the regeneration of the inner lining of arteries, also known as the endothelium, and it also inhibits platelet clumping. This has the overall effect of making the blood thinner. The effect of nitric
oxide in the treatment of vascular problems has been studied in over 60,000 research papers done within the last two decades. This research finds that the nitric oxide molecule is a therapeutic tool used in dilating narrowing arteries and inhibiting plaque formation and other clotting conditions.
The physiological cause of erectile dysfunction stems from the inability of blood vessels in the penile region to dilate enough so as to allow engorgement and proper blood flow. The body usually produces nitric oxide through metabolism of L-citrulline. However, this production is hindered by some other compounds such as arginase. Many health benefits are obtained by nitric oxide supplementation. Boosting the body’s natural nitric oxide production, will ensure that enough blood flows to the penis tissue.
Nitric oxide supplements containing L-citrulline have powerful metabolic effects in the urea cycle. They play a key role in vasodilation and enhancement of liver detoxifications that have a direct impact on health of the male sexual organs. By scavenging hydroxyl radicals, L-citrulline helps in reducing tissue inflammation and improves the functioning of the senses.
The formation of nitric oxide through an enzymatic conversion of L-arginine helps in facilitating the neural system in the penis that in turn initiates a dilation of corpus cavernosum. Nitric oxide released from the nerve endings as well as endothelial cells stimulates the action of guanylate cyclase. This stimulation leads to an increase in cGMP that is cyclic guanosine-3',5'-monophosphate and ultimately a relaxation of the cavernous smooth muscle. This is the full cycle of how nitric oxide initiates an erection.
Other benefits enjoyed while treating erectile dysfunction treatment include an increase in acetylcholine neurotransmitter present in the brain region. Acetylcholine improves the flow of blood to muscle tissues, including the penile tissues, which promotes tissue oxygenation and the proper supply of nutrients. It also activates the endothelial cells to resume the production of Nitric Oxide Synthase. NOS is the enzyme that converts L-arginine into nitric oxide.
Lifestyle Modifications that Enhance the Impact of Nitric Oxide
When taking NO supplements, there are counterproductive practices that you need to keep aside if you are to experience the full nitric oxide health benefits in treating erectile dysfunction. These practices include:
Smoking – Smoking impairs nitric oxide synthesis which is the vasodilator needed to enhance blood flow to the sexual organs.
High Intake of Salt – High salt levels negatively affects the functioning of the endothelial cells responsible for the production of Nitric Oxide Synthase. Studies done on the impact of high salt intakes links this practice to increased arterial pressure. Apart from stressing the body muscles, arterial pressure limits the flow of blood and thickens the walls of arteries leading to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is one of the major concerns in erectile dysfunctions.
In addition to the above modifications, you can also engage in aerobic exercises as well as health eating habits. Green leafy vegetables and fruits promote the increased production of nitric oxide.