Men at any age who find difficulty in getting or keeping an erection during sexual intercourse suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence. Sexual contact or thinking about sex leads to an increase of blood in the penis which results in an erection. Experiencing erectile dysfunction is normal in men; if the problem continues to persist for more than three months, one should consult a doctor and get treated. Anxiety, depression, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are some psychological reasons for ED. Another reason for erectile dysfunction is reduced blood flow in the penis bloodstream. Men with diabetes are at a higher risk of having erectile dysfunction, especially if the diabetes is not in control. Treatment of erectile dysfunction includes medication, counseling and in severe cases, penis implants are also done.

Some symptoms of ED are problem in keeping an erection, difficulty getting an erection, and reduced or no interest in sex. Erectile dysfunction can also cause complications like relationship problems, low self-esteem, and inability to produce children.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help in preventing erectile dysfunction, such as managing any chronic health conditions, avoiding alcohol and smoking, exercising regularly, intake of foods containing key nutrients, also called superfoods, helps in curing erectile dysfunction.

Superfoods for erectile dysfunction include:

1. Leafy green vegetables and beetroot
Natural nitrate compounds are found both in leafy vegetables and beets. These help in better circulation of blood and are known as a superfood for erectile dysfunction. The medications used to treat erectile dysfunction are also based on the relaxing effects of nitrate on the blood vessels which supply blood to the penis. Kale, lettuce, spinach, and arugula are some common leafy vegetables that one can include in their diet.

2. Dark chocolate
Considered as a superfood for erectile dysfunction, dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which help in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels as both these problems contribute to erectile dysfunction. Flavonoids present in dark chocolate also help in producing nitric oxide which helps in the erection process and also arouses the desire for sex. Dark chocolate which is unheated or raw, with no sugar content is quite beneficial for erectile dysfunction.

3. Pistachios
Arginine, a protein found in pistachios, helps in the relaxation of blood vessels and improves not only erectile dysfunction but also boosts sexual desire and satisfaction. Consuming a handful of pistachios for three weeks has shown noticeable improvement in cases of erectile dysfunction.

4. Oysters and other shellfish
Testosterone levels can be boosted by consuming oysters. Oysters contain zinc, copper, magnesium, selenium, and vitamin D; all these are vital for erectile function. Thus, oysters are called superfoods for erectile dysfunction.

5. Watermelon
A superfood for erectile dysfunction, watermelons are rich in phytonutrients which help in relaxing the blood vessels in the penis. It also has antioxidant properties, aids weight loss and can help in improving erectile dysfunction.