Erectile Dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability of a man to maintain a firm erection long enough to have sex. Although erectile dysfunction is more common in older men, this common problem can occur at any age. Having trouble maintaining an erection occasionally is normal and not a cause for concern. But if the problem is ongoing, it can cause stress and relationship problems and affect self-esteem.

Common Triggers

Emotional

Fear of not being able to have an erection often spoils the mood, as can emotional issues with one’s spouse. If you have an erection during sleep or when you wake, it is likely an emotional and not a physical problem (which is good).

Physical

Decreased testosterone production with age (see Low Libido) can cause ED. Ask your physician if you are on a medication that can cause sexual dysfunction (e.g., blood pressure meds, anti-depressants) and ask for alternatives.

TREATMENT

Recommended Supplements

•	Arginine (amino acid) 1,000 mg/day
•	Maca root extract 400-800 mg/day
•	Rhodiola rosea extract 150-300 mg/day
•	Epimedium extract 100-200 mg/day
•	Longjack extract 50-100 mg/day
•	Panax ginseng 100-200 mg/day
•	Ginkgo biloba extract 50-240 mg/day
•	Diindolymethane (DIM) 100-200 mg/day
•	Macuna pruriens extract (15% L-dopa) 50-200 mg/day
•	Tribulus terrestris extract 100-200 mg/day

These can be tried individually or many of these can be found in combination in “Potency Plus” by Ultraceuticals or “Hot Plants — For Him” by Enzymatic Therapy.

Medications

Cialis®

Medications are very reasonable here. Cialis® is excellent for erectile dysfunction. It starts working more quickly than Viagra and lasts longer — for the same price! It comes in 10 and 20 mg strengths (both cost about $15 whether it is 10 or 20 mg so get the 20 mg tablet and take 1/4-1 tablet). Dissolve under your tongue for quicker effect.

Cialis can be taken with food. Erection medications should not be used in conjunction with nitroglycerin, and they may cause problems in patients with heart disease.

Other Therapies & Advice

If you have diabetes

If you have diabetes, optimize nerve function with a multi-nutrient powder (make sure it has vitamins B6, B12, Inositol, and magnesium for nerve function — see Energy Revitalization System) plus lipoic acid 300 mg 2x a day plus acetyl-L-carnitine 1,000-1,500 mg a day. These may all help restore nerve function in diabetes. Give them 2-6 months to work.