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ED is usually the result of various health issues like heart disease, diabetes, or even mental health concerns like anxiety and depression.<\/p>\nED is usually the result of various health issues like heart disease, diabetes, or even mental health concerns like anxiety and depression.<\/p>\n
A new study published in the Journal of Aging and Public Health<\/em> has, however, discovered a new factor. One that may play an even stronger role.<\/p>\n The good news is that you can tackle this factor today without making any other changes to your health or lifestyle. <\/p>\n The researchers used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, focusing on 1,938 men aged 40 and older. They looked at how three forms of social support - emotional, material, and network support - affected men’s chances of developing ED.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s what they found.<\/p>\n 2.\tPredictably, ED was more common in men with high blood pressure, prostate disease, kidney dysfunction, and mental problems.<\/p>\n 3.\tMen with less social support were more likely to have ED.<\/p>\n 4.\tThose with higher levels of support had a 19% lower chance of suffering from ED after adjusting for various health and lifestyle factors.<\/p>\n 5.\tSeparately, the three aspects of social support didn’t have a big effect, but together they did.\n<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n This suggests a strong link between having a good support network and maintaining sexual health as one ages.<\/p>\n The idea is that social support - like having people to talk to, help with daily tasks, or even financial assistance - can cushion against the stress and psychological strains that might contribute to ED.<\/p>\n Here’s how it might work.<\/p>\n Emotional support in the form of talking through problems can reduce stress and anxiety related to sexual performance.<\/p>\n Material support, such as being helped with managing health treatments or diet, can maintain better overall health, indirectly supporting sexual function.<\/p>\n Network support, or connections with friends and family, might encourage a healthier lifestyle and regular medical check-ups.<\/p>\n So, if you suffer from ED, you may just want to reach out to an old friend you haven\u2019t talked to for a long time. Chances are they need your support as much as you need theirs.<\/p>\n\n