Erectile dysfunction is a condition where one cannot get and maintain a firm erection for sexual intercourse. The term impotence is also used for the same condition, although the usage of the term is now restricted. There are multiple reasons for erectile dysfunction or ED. However, its risk can be reduced. Read on to know six tips to reduce the risk of ED.

• Maintain a healthy diet
  Maintaining a diet rich in natural foods, including fruits and vegetables, is considered healthy and reduces the risk of ED. Whole grains should also be included in the diet. Some foods to be avoided to reduce the risk of ED include red meat and processed foods. Principally, one should avoid anything that is not good for the heart.
   
• Avoid high blood cholesterol and blood pressure
  High blood pressure and high cholesterol restrict the flow of blood through blood vessels, including the blood vessels that are responsible for bringing blood to the penis. While the doctor may check blood pressure upon visits, it is advisable to check blood pressure oneself at home using a portable blood pressure device.
  
  
• Lose weight
  Obesity is directly responsible for erectile dysfunction. As per studies, a man with a 42-inch waist has 50% higher chances of getting erectile dysfunction than a man having a 32-inch waist. One should attain and maintain a healthy weight to ensure the risk of erectile dysfunction is at a minimum. Furthermore, this prevents vascular diseases and diabetes, both of which are commonly linked with ED.
  
  
• Quit smoking
  Smoking harms the blood vessels and impairs the blood flow drastically. The presence of nicotine contracts the blood vessels, thereby impacting blood flow to different parts of the body, including the penis. Thus, this is among the most important tips to reduce the risk of ED.
  
  
• Exercise regularly
  Certain lifestyle changes can help you reduce the risk of ED majorly, and one of the most important ones is exercise. Running, swimming, and certain aerobic exercises have been known to help erectile dysfunction to a great level. However, certain exercises that put pressure on the perineum, the area between the scrotum and anus. These exercises can increase the risk of ED and should be avoided.
  
  
• Sleep well
  The sexual performance of a man also depends on the quality of sleep. Therefore, one is advised to sleep well to avoid the risk of ED. It has been observed that men who suffered from sleep apnea, experiencing breathlessness while sleeping, had better sexual performance after using a breathing machine while sleeping. Thus, sleeping well is important to avoid the risk of ED.