Impotence, aka erectile dysfunction, aka ED, is not often the easiest topic to discuss but it effects more men than we likely realize.  As many as 50 million men in the US and Europe suffer from impotence, or erectile dysfunction.  Statistically, this number includes only about 5% of men less than 40 years old and up to 25% of men by the time they reach 65 years of age. By definition, impotence is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.

But erectile dysfunction is almost always referred to as an older man's disease, but this just isn't the case. About 26 percent of men under the age of 40 are affected by ED according to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine.

For younger men suffering from ED, we have to focus on psychological connection but also daily and everyday habits that cause ED in this age range of men. 

For young men experiencing problems with achieving an erection, here are some common causes that may be linked to the problem: 

Stress: Men in their tens, 20s and 30s, most cases of ED are linked to psychological issues. Anxiety and stress are a major factors especially if these are factors right before sex. Many young men who are inexperienced feel pressure to perform the best sexually and also have concerns about size. This stress can lead to performance anxiety. This buildup of stress can cause an influx of adrenaline or epinephrine which can inhibit an erection. 

Excessive bike rising: Now just to be sure you understand, if you're an avid biker, it doesn't mean you're going to develop ED. But if you experience numbness as you rise within the first few miles or after biking marathons you may be causing long-term damage. Below the prostate and what directly rests on the bicycle seat are the nerves responsible for bringing blood the penis, which is what happens during an erection. Try getting fitted for a better seat if you're experiencing this. 

Cold medications like Sudafed contain pseudoephedrine which acts as epinephrine in the body and decreases the ability to achieve an erection. It increases your body's natural fight or flight reaction and makes your body think you're scare of something. The effects of the drug aren't permanent. 

Drinking and recreational drug use may also serve as a proponent of ED. Alcohol is a depressant and relaxes you but can cause the inability to perform. Cocaine for example, will lower your testosterone levels. 

Cancer treatments: If young men have been diagnosed with testicular cancer or another cancer and are being treated with chemotherapy and radiation may lower testosterone levels which affect blood flow to the penis. Radiation can also directly damage the lining of the blood vessels or cause nerve damage. 

Diabetes and high blood pressure are other causes of ED because diabetes impacts the body's ability to produce nitric oxide. Another major factor is being obese or overweight. Anything that's bad for your heart is bad for your penis. Blood vessels are tiny in the penis and if they're clogged the blood won't flow there. Eating right and exercising makes everything work better. 

Natural Ways for Men to Boost Libido

1. STOP SMOKING

Smoking can cause blood vessels to narrow, which can have a detrimental effect on blood flow to sex organs.  Similarly, smoking diminishes your stamina, limiting the amount of rigorous activity one can handle – which unfortunately can leave your partner wanting more.

2. WORK IT OUT

Moderate regular exercise has been shown to help improve blood flow to the sexual organs.  Exercises focused on thighs, buttocks and pelvis are especially good for genital circulation.  In addition, exercise boosts self-image and confidence. Anything that improves self-esteem will in turn improve libido.

3. LOSE WEIGHT

Study out of Duke, found that up to 30% of obese people seeking help controlling their weight indicate problems with sex drive, desire, performance, or all three.  This is because being overweight can reduce blood flow and lower testosterone levels.  High cholesterol as well as type 2 diabetes, both associated with being overweight, impact sexual performance.  Both can cause penile arteries to shut down when arteries get clogged with fat deposits.  Erectile dysfunction leads to decreased sexual desire and libido.

4. GINGKO BILOBA

Herbal remedies like tea or supplements derived from ginko biloba can have a positive effect on sexual desire and even orgasm.  This age-old remedy is known to improve circulation, yet again enhancing sex.

5. TRY SOME LIBIDO-BOOSTING FOODS

Certain foods, like those high in zinc (think oysters!) can increase sperm production and testosterone- the hormone in men responsible for sex drive.  Also, foods high in essential fatty acids like flaxseeds, sardines, and nuts help to increase testosterone production and increase libido.