If you have been diagnosed with any type of diabetes it is important to know how this will affect your sex life now and in the years to come. When diabetes is managed well with vitamins, minerals, medications and exercise there is no reason for men not to have a long, satisfying and healthy sex life. However, when blood sugars are imbalanced and triglycerides are on the rise then sexual performance, mood, energy and libido can all be endangered.

Diabetes Reduces Libido

Symptoms of diabetes often include dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue and low energy levels. For libido and sexual health in men these factors certainly do not point to a fulfilling sex life. According to researchers from Oxford University (UK), it is common for men with diabetes to experience problems with libido. After surveying 253 male patients with type 2 diabetes the researchers found that over 70% experience some degree of erectile dysfunction; while the most common problems experienced by the participants were premature ejaculation and reduced libido.

Circulation

Russian researchers tested the peripheral circulation in 564 patients suffering from type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as atherosclerosis. Patients with diabetes were found to have significantly impaired microcirculation, affected negatively by triglycerides and blood coagulation. These factors make the blood thicker, more congealed and less easy to flow through the circulatory pathways: this is especially true in obese male patients with a large waist circumference, making blood flow to the peripheries and to the penis more slowly and inefficiently. However exercise, increased water intake, circulatory stimulants (cayenne, ginger, ginkgo and bilberry), anti-coagulants and blood thinning medication may well improve circulation to the male reproductive system. It is vital to address the cause as quickly as possible to gain best possible chance of a return to a normal libido. Controlling diabetic symptoms is therefore the most important step in improving sexual function.

Smooth Muscle Relaxation

Smooth muscles are found in every blood vessel, controlling the dilation or constriction that allows blood and serum to flow freely throughout the body. Diabetes significantly reduces smooth muscle control over blood flow, increasing the risk of erectile dysfunction in men. When the smooth muscles of the blood vessels cannot dilate effectively not enough blood is able to fill the penis during arousal. In order to improve smooth muscle control over blood flow it is important to restore nitric oxide levels.

Nitric oxide is an enzyme which signals the smooth muscles to dilate and allow blood to flow into the penis. It is manufactured by the body from the amino acid L-arginine, and has been shown in studies to improve cardiovascular health, erectile dysfunction and energy levels. During a clinical study funded by Tel Aviv University in Israel, 31% of men given 5g of L-arginine supplements per day noticed a significant improvement in erectile dysfunction symptoms.

Treatment

Diabetes is a complicated condition that can be very difficult to control, but that is no reason for men to give up living a healthy and enjoyable sex life. Insulin medication, exercise, healthy low GI foods, complementary medicines, and strong mental health, are all important factors for improving blood sugar levels, and with it, libido and sexual function. Various nutrients, such as vitamins C and E as well as chromium and selenium are useful for managing blood sugar levels. In addition some plant medicines including gymnema, fenugreek, goat's rue, bilberry and green tea have been found to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. Use these circumspectly however, as they may lower blood sugar levels, which is an undesirable effect in men whose blood sugar levels are properly balanced.

Penis Health Crèmes

Penis health crèmes may help to support penis health and sexual function in men. Containing a range of active ingredients and nutrients, penis health crèmes nourish the tissues of the reproductive system and promote circulatory health. Specialist formulas (most professionals recommend Man1Man Oil) contain vitamin E, C, A, D, L-arginine and alpha lipoic acid, mixed in a base of moisturizing shea nut butter. This specific blend bypasses digestion and feeds the tissues of the penis directly, supporting nitric oxide levels, smooth muscle control, microcirculation and nerve function. Use as directed for enhanced and continuing sensitivity and health.