Elevated blood sugar negatively impacts a man's sexual performance
In a groundbreaking study, researchers have shed light on the often overlooked link between blood sugar levels and male sexual health. The six-year study, involving 117 healthy men, examined changes in semen, hormonal profiles, erectile function, and metabolic health [1].
Elevated blood sugar, even levels below the diabetes threshold, has been found to negatively impact male sexual health. High blood sugar can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and vascular damage, impairing blood flow and nerve signals needed to achieve and maintain erections, leading to erectile dysfunction (ED) [1][3][4].
Moreover, mild hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, has been linked to declines in sperm motility and erectile function, demonstrating that even small fluctuations in blood sugar pose risks to male sexual health [1][2][5].
High blood sugar can also lower testosterone levels, which correlate with reduced libido, although testosterone influences desire more than the mechanical process of erection [1][2]. Interestingly, the study found that testosterone levels did not have a direct impact on erectile function, but were related to participants' libido assessment.
The study's findings suggest that metabolic health, including blood sugar stability, has a stronger influence on sexual function decline than age or testosterone levels alone [2][5]. Insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes, can impair blood flow and erectile function even before diabetes is diagnosed [3].
Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, weight loss, and practices to reduce stress may improve insulin sensitivity, normalize blood sugar, support vascular and nerve health, and thus improve or prevent worsening of erectile dysfunction related to high blood sugar [1][3]. The Mediterranean diet and a low-calorie keto diet have shown promise in this regard, improving blood sugar, weight, and metabolic health.
Vitamin D supplements can also play a role in managing blood sugar and boosting testosterone levels. The recommended therapeutic dose for vitamin D is between 4000 and 5000 IUs a day [6]. It's important to note that discussing with a doctor before taking supplements is crucial if one is already on medication to lower blood sugar.
The study indicates that it's in men's power to retain sexual and reproductive wellbeing, even as they age. Regular exercise increases the body's sensitivity to insulin, allowing sugar to be processed more efficiently [7].
The American Diabetes Association provides valuable information on blood glucose and exercise. Science Daily and U.S. News & World Report have published articles on the impact of slightly high blood sugar on men's sexual health. The researchers hope the information from the study will help doctors and their patients establish effective male sexual health maintenance plans.
However, it's crucial to remember that menopause tends to reduce libido and make sex more painful for women due to vaginal dryness and atrophy, which is a separate issue not directly linked to the male's blood sugar levels.
In conclusion, keeping blood glucose controlled is crucial for preserving erectile function and overall male sexual health because high blood sugar undermines the vascular and nerve pathways essential for sexual performance [1][3][4][5]. By making informed lifestyle choices and seeking medical advice when necessary, men can take steps to preserve or revive their reproductive health.
References:
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- The groundbreaking study links high blood sugar levels to potential declines in male sexual health, indicating that even mild hyperglycemia can negatively impact semen, hormonal profiles, erectile function, and vascular health.
- To maintain sexual health, it's important for men to consider supplements like Vitamin D, as appropriate doses (between 4000 and 5000 IUs a day) have been shown to manage blood sugar and boost testosterone levels.
- Maintaining overall health and wellness by adhering to a balanced diet, regular exercise, and practices to reduce stress can significantly improve insulin sensitivity, normalize blood sugar levels, and thus support vascular and nerve health related to sexual function – this is particularly relevant for men's health.
