Male Sexual Performance and Obesity –Dropping Those Extra Pounds Can Make a Difference These days, there is a proliferation of mixed messages when it comes to body weight, body image and obesity. On the one hand, medical articles refer to the obesity “epidemic” and issue dire warnings about the consequences of carrying too much body fat; at the same time, images of lean and fit bodies are idealized in popular media. On the other hand, men and women are being told to embrace their bodies even if they do not live up to this ideal, and “fat-shaming” is becoming something of a cardinal sin. However, regardless of public opinion on the subject, and regardless of any taboos about mentioning fat as a serious problem, being overweight does have significant health consequences. And while warnings about their cardiovascular health may not mean much to men who would prefer wings and beer while watching football in a sports bar over training for a triathlon, these same men may take note when they learn that the extra order of fries could be the reason for their subpar penis health and flagging sexual performance. The Link between Obesity and Male Sex Problems 1. Cardiovascular issues. As most men are well-aware, the ability to get and sustain an erection depends on adequate blood flow. Excess body fat disrupts blood flow in a number of ways, ranging from blocked arteries to greater stress on the heart. 2. Damage to the penile endothelium. The penile blood vessels are lined with a thin layer of tissue called the endothelium. Excessive fat in the body causes a form of inflammation in this tissue that impedes healthy circulation, thereby impeding the erectile process. 3. Obesity causes hypogonadism. Being overweight also has a negative effect on testosterone levels, leading to decreased libido and a sluggish erectile response. Obese men are at greater risk of hypogonadism, or low levels of male hormone. 4. Obesity is linked to depression and social anxiety. The ability to connect with a partner and have a successful sexual encounter is not www.man1health.com