The Role of Diet in the Pathogenesis of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED), characterized by a man’s constant or recurrent disability to obtain and/or maintain penile erection sufficient to achieve and complete satisfactory sexual intercourse, is a common ailment. Its incidence and prevalence increases with age. ED is caused by several factors -psychological factors, organic factors, and metabolic factors. ED may also be iatrogenic and related to some drugs, pelvic surgery, or radiotherapy. The main etiology is vascular in nature, with risk factors that are common to other cardiovascular diseases. Several drugs, mechanical and prosthetic devices, and surgical procedures are used to alleviate ED. Lifestyle modulation is increasingly being added as first-line treatments for ED. These include lack of physical activity and cigarette smoking. Obesity and an unhealthy quality of diet are also lifestyles that affect ED. This manuscript narratively reviews the impact of excessive caloric intake, various dietary ingredients, and special diets on ED.

Diet and Cardiovascular Disease: Venous Thrombo-embolism

Venous thromboembolism is responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality. It is estimated to be the second most common medical complication, the second most common cause of prolonged hospitalisation, and the third most common cause of excess mortality. Recurrences are common. Anticoagulation is usually given for three months. However, inefficiency and major bleeding is often noted. External compression devices and balloon or direct thrombectomy and insertion of inferior vena cava filters are also available. Increasing data indicate that diet may play an important role in preventing venous thromboembolism. Obesity, which is significantly related to diet, may contribute to 30% of all venous thromboembolism cases. Further, plant-based diets, such as the Mediterranean, prudent, and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diets are related to a lower incidence of venous thromboembolism. This manuscript reviews the published literature on the relationship of various dietary components and dietary patterns, and their impact on the development and progression of venous thromboembolism.