While we all want to feel great at any age, certain foods can actually make this difficult. What’s more, certain foods can interact with your medications, causing unforeseen complications.
Food Interactions With Viagra
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition among seniors. More than 50% of men over the age of 55 report having some level of ED. Those with severe cases may be prescribed medication such as Viagra. While this drug can be very effective at increasing the blood flow to the penis and allowing for an erection, not all foods interact well with this medication and vice versa. Let’s take a look at some of the most common food interactions with Viagra and how to avoid them.
Red Wine
Red wine is a common cause of ED, so much so that it’s been cited as a major factor in the development of the condition. Studies have shown that alcohol – the compound found in red wine – decreases the effectiveness of Viagra. It’s not just red wine, however. Any alcoholic beverage containing alcohol has this effect. The best practice for those on medication is to stick to non-alcoholic drinks and avoid touching alcohol with Viagra. The same goes for those taking nitrates. Nitrates, found in many foods, are used to treat angina (chest pain) but can also cause unwanted effects, many of which are associated with ED. Prolonged or excessive drinking can even lead to addiction. It’s always a good idea to ask your doctor about what you should and should not be doing while on medication.
Garlic
Garlic is a common culinary ingredient, used in most cuisines. This bulbous plant has been shown in studies to have some cardiovascular benefits. One of the most significant is that it can prevent atherosclerosis (a type of cardiovascular disease) by inhibiting the formation of endothelial (inner lining) cells in the body. This vegetable has been found to inhibit the absorption of cholesterol and fats in the intestines. What’s more, garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a potentially powerful medicine for combating infection. The downside to garlic is that it can cause some men to lose their sense of smell, so if you have a taste for this pungent herb, then eating it may prevent you from detecting some foods that you might otherwise enjoy. It’s best to eat this herb raw or lightly steamed as a vegetable.
Chocolate
Chocolate, that favorite amongst many because of its taste, is a rich source of antioxidants and other substances which benefit the human body. It has been associated with increased sexual activity in studies, leading some to believe that our favorite food may be able to help solve the problem of ED. This is all due to the effect that chocolate has on the nitric oxide levels (noses) in the body. Nitric oxide is a signal molecule which triggers the relaxation of muscles in the blood vessels, resulting in increased blood flow. This, in turn, results in erections suitable for sexual activity.
Carrots
Like many other foods on this list, carrots are a common source of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and antioxidants. What’s more, carrots have been found in studies to help with erectile dysfunction. In fact, men who eat a lot of carrots have been found to have the lowest rates of ED in a study involving more than 72,000 participants. One carrot a day may help promote healthy erections for men who are deficient in vitamin A, vitamin B, or vitamin C. What’s more, beta-carotene, a substance which gives carrots their vivid color, has been found to help prevent atherosclerosis and lower cholesterol.
Onions
Onions are a member of the allium family, one of the most significant of which is the garlic . Like garlic, onions have been found to lower cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis. They also contain properties which reduce inflammation and promote blood circulation. What’s more, onions have been used for centuries to help men maintain an erection. In fact, the ancient Egyptians placed fried onions on the mummies of their dead for good luck! The downside to onions is that they can cause some people to lose their sense of taste. If you have a taste for this veggie, then by all means, eat as much as you can!
It’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor before taking dietary supplements or using any herbal remedies. There are many foods which could potentially cause problems for those with existing medical conditions or taking medication. For instance, ginger has been found to lower male fertility and increase the risk of miscarriage in rats, so it’s best avoided by women trying to conceive or who are pregnant. Similarly, grapefruit has been found to increase the risk of cancer in rats, so it should be avoided by those with weak immune systems or taking medication such as chemotherapy.