There is individual variation, ranging from a complete inability to achieve an erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, and the inability to maintain an erection during intercourse. Because there is a complex sequence of events by which an erection occurs, there are many possible causes for erectile dysfunction. Let's explore what some of these causes may be, and supplements and lifestyle changes that can support erectile dysfunction. 

Understanding How Erections Occur

Erections come about as the result of a series of natural processes in the body. Initially, nerve impulses in the brain travel through the spine to the penis signally muscle, arteries, veins and fibrous tissue to begin filling the sponge-like corpus cavernosum with blood. Increased blood flow occurs when artery muscles relax and allow more blood flow into the penis. The body naturally restricts venous outflow, trapping blood and maintaining an erection. This leads to an erection. Erectile Dysfunction can occur as a result of a disease affecting any part of this system.

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?

Physical Causes

Because the impulse for erection begins in the brain, neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson’s can all lead to erectile dysfunction via injury to the nervous system in the brain. Physical trauma to the head, causing brain damage, can also have this effect, as can any surgery injuring nerves and arteries in the pelvis or around the penis. Poorly controlled diabetes causes damage to nerves and small blood vessels in the peripheral areas of the body, both of which can also cause erectile dysfunction. Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone, are another cause of erectile dysfunction.

Lifestyle Causes

Lifestyle factors that most commonly contribute to erectile dysfunction are the same as those that contribute to Heart Attack, and vascular diseases like Atherosclerosis. These include: smoking, obesity and alcoholism. Fatty deposits caused by atherosclerosis can clog arteries anywhere in the body, including those that feed the penis. When blood cannot properly reach the body of the penis, it results in a diminished or unattainable erection. Similarly, weakened smooth muscle and poor vascular health cause blood to seep out of the penis during erection, which results in a loss of erection over time despite continued sexual stimulation.

Outside Influences

Many prescription medications and recreational drugs can contribute to erectile dysfunction as a side effect. Anti-depressants and anti-hypertensive drugs are both classes of medication that can commonly have this effect.

How Can I Distinguish a Physical vs Mental Cause in ED?

Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, guilt, depression and low self-esteem can all lead to erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction is not "just in your head." Psychological factors create real physical effects and deserve serious attention. Stress puts the body in the “fight-or-flight” state, which directly opposes the “rest-and-digest” state required to achieve an erection. In short, stress changes your body chemistry to make erections more difficult to achieve. Men who have “wet dreams” or wake up with an erection in the morning, but cannot experience an erection leading up to and during intercourse, may suffer from erectile dysfunction caused by a psychological root. Effective stress coping strategies, counselling, and exercise can all help to relieve erectile dysfunction of a psychological nature. If this case describes you, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. It’s not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of imbalance. Getting the help you need takes true strength and can quickly get you back in the game.

Common Treatment Options & Supplements For Erectile Dysfunction 

Conventional Treatments

In conventional medicine, medication can be taken orally or injected directly into the penis prior to intercourse to effectively treat erectile dysfunction. Oral medications such as Viagra or Cialis work by enhancing the effects of Nitric Oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle, allowing for increased blood flow to the sex organs. This improves the response to sexual stimulation and allows for improved erectile function. Oral testosterone can help to supplement low levels of natural testosterone if this is an issue. It can, therefore, help to treat erectile dysfunction, although it should only be used under the guidance of your healthcare provider.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes

There are a variety of lifestyle modifications, as well as effective supplementation, that can dramatically reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction and improve existing conditions. As mentioned earlier, smoking, poor dietary habits, and obesity are all related to an increased incidence of erectile dysfunction. Moderate exercise and weight loss can be the first step in prevention and treatment. A diet high in fibre, green leafy and bright colored vegetables, fruits and good Fats can also go a long way in preventing and treating erectile dysfunction. Every small dietary change that you make can be a step on the road to a healthy sex life.

Stimulating Blood Flow

Acupuncture of certain body points can increase blood flow to the penis. It can stimulate nerve conduction throughout the body and also to specific areas. It does this by tapping into the Qi or energy meridians beneath the surface of the skin. For more information on this method of treatment, contact your local Chinese Medicine or Naturopathic Doctor. Herbs can also be used to stimulate increased blood flow to the extremities. One herb, in particular, is commonly used for this circulatory effect.

Nutritional Support & Supplements For Erectile Dysfunction 

B Vitamins play a strong role in nerve conduction through out the body. Vitamin B1 or Thiamine is one of the primary vitamins used in nerve conduction throughout the body. Unfortunately, absorption of thiamine in our digestive tract can be tricky. Benfotiamine is a fat-soluble version of vitamin B1 and a good alternative to help with improved absorption for those with a deficiency.

Vitamin B12 also has a strong role in the nervous system, and is commonly used for the treatment of depression and certain neurological diseases. Vitamin B6 also plays a strong role in nerve conduction and is being studied for its use in the treatment of depression, Parkinson’s disease and peripheral neuropathies, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Niacin, or vitamin B3, lowers “bad” cholesterol LDL and VLDL, as well as increases the good HDL cholesterol in our bodies. It also reduces triglycerides and total cholesterol, therefore drastically reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. All of these B vitamins can be found in combination formulas known as B-Complex. Other treatments will generally be directed at the underlying root condition contributing to the dysfunction. Please see our specific articles for more information.