Erectile Dysfunction Causes

By Helena Ederveen

Erectile dysfunction causes and elevated Insulin Levels and Low DHEA Levels are linked.Many medical studies and researches have gone to show that elevated insulin levels and low DHEA levels lead to poor libido. Testosterone is a male hormone which has the masculizing effect on the body, apart from playing minor roles in metabolism as well.

Apart from that, testosterone or DHEA also plays a big role in erectile dysfunction causes and maintaining libido and sexual potency. With the increase in age, the pituitary gland begins to produce less and less of free testosterone. On the other hand, the peripheral conversion of free testosterone continues. This implies that men with age eventually face health problems, most of which are related to sexual impotence and a need to find ways how to cope with erectile dysfunction.

Now let us explore certain erectile dysfunction causes and decreased levels of DHEA in the body

1. Aging

Starting at the age of 40, lower levels of DHEA and consecutively testosterone is produced in males. However, the peripheral conversion of steroids continue, which leads to increased levels of by-products like Prolactin. There is also increased stimulation of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase that leads to the breakdown of testosterone which can lead to erectile dysfunction causes.

2. DHEA Deficiency

DHEA is the precursor of all sex hormones, including testosterone. This hormone is generated by the adrenal cortex. A decrease in its production directly affects the circulating levels of testosterone, and hence the libido and sexual activity of men. Another cause of erectile dysfunction.

3. Zinc

Zinc is an aromatase enzyme inhibitor which occurs naturally. Being an inhibitor, it helps in blocking the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. With age, when the aromatase activity is not in accordance with the production of testosterone, dietary supplements of Zinc is seen to produce a good effect on sexual potency and libido.

4. Aromatase

Aromatase is an enzyme which belongs to the Cytochrome P450 family of enzymes. The main function of this hormone is to aromatize or convert androgen to estrogen. As discussed, with age, the activity of Aromatase increases. It is imperative to use supplementary dietary sources of Aromatase inhibitors, which helps to increase libido considerably.

5. Liver Disease

Liver disease and association with alcoholism is also seen to hamper the metabolism and production of DHEA, and is known to affect sexual potency in men and hence erectile dysfunction will start to manifest.

Elevated Levels of Insulin and Its Effect on LibidoHigh insulin is known to cause an increase in the amount of abdominal fat, which has a direct effect on the circulating levels of testosterone as well as its aromatization. A diet which leads to excess consumption of carbohydrates and sugars lead to an increase in the amount of insulin released. An increased level of Insulin is also known to send the signal for storing food in the form of fat and glycogen.

This not only increases the body mass, but may also increase the demands on liver function, which is indirectly known to affect the circulating levels of testosterone in the body. High levels of insulin in the body can precipitate pre-diabetic condition like the metabolic syndrome which is also known as insulin resistance. Of all the hormones, which effect libido, insulin is the easiest to manipulate and control. A good diet along with physical exercise can lead to a healthy level of circulating level of insulin in the body.

Symptoms of Elevated Insulin Levels and Low DHEA LevelsThe first and foremost symptom of elevated insulin levels and low DHEA levels leading to poor libido is decreased sexual activity. Diabetes and erectile dysfunction are linked. Apart from maintaining sexual activity, testosterone is known to have other effects on metabolism. A poor level of circulating DHEA is seen to cause other effects like loss of bone density and decrease in muscle mass. Increased level of insulin leads to abnormal deposition of fat. Increased levels of peripheral fat also causes increased aromatization of testosterone which again has its obliterating effects on libido.

It is seen that DHEA and Insulin are hormones which are imperative for the body to function normally. Also, elevated Insulin levels and low DHEA levels leading to poor libido and erectile dysfunction symptoms have been established beyond the shadow of doubt, and timely intervention in form of a healthy lifestyle and good dietary habits is absolutely necessary to remain sexually active.

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