Many men need help with erectile dysfunction (ED). Some struggle to achieve or maintain an erection on rare occasions, while it is a permanent problem for some others. Occasional ED can also be treated without medication; only some dietary changes have to be made. Some foods and drinks that help to reduce the symptoms of ED are as follows:

1. Dark chocolate
Flavonoids are naturally occurring antioxidants that help to repair cell damage. The flavonoids in dark chocolate improve circulation, which is beneficial to deal with ED that occurs due to poor blood circulation. The cacao present in chocolate increases the mood-boosting hormone serotonin, which lowers stress levels and boosts sexual desire. This ED superfood also works to enhance blood flow.

2. Wine
It is very often that red wine is associated with dates and romantic dinners, and it could be because it is a libido booster. Studies show that wine increases testosterone levels. It contains a compound called quercetin, which blocks an enzyme responsible for expelling testosterone from the body, increasing the amount of testosterone circulating in the blood, making it a superfood for dealing with the symptoms of ED.

3. Salmon
Oily fish like wild salmon, sardines, and tuna are filled with omega-3 fatty acids, which not only benefits the heart but also raise dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine improves circulation and triggers arousal. It relieves stress and promotes a relaxed feeling.

4. Chicken breast
Chicken breast, a great dinner staple and a superfood for ED, is loaded with arginine and B vitamins. It boosts metabolism and energy levels, which, in turn, help men in dealing with the symptoms of ED.

5. Oysters and shellfish
Oysters have always had a reputation to be an aphrodisiac. It could be because oysters are high in zinc, which plays an important role in the production of the male hormone testosterone. Low levels of zinc in the body is found to be one of the reasons for ED, and it should be avoided by consuming ED superfoods rich in zinc. Raw shellfish also contains certain compounds that stimulate the release of sexual hormones in both men and women.

6. Coffee
Studies have shown that men who drink two to three cups of coffee – around 85 to 180 milligrams of caffeine intake – are less likely to face ED. This could be because caffeine is a strong stimulant that triggers reactions in the body, which leads to enhanced blood flow.

7. Green tea
Green tea is a superfood for ED as catechins in green tea promote blood flow to the lower parts of the body. They kill free radicals that damage and inflame blood vessels, increasing their ability to transport blood to all parts of the body. They get the blood vessel cells to release nitric oxide, which increases the size of the blood vessels, improving blood flow.

Men should avoid junk food and foods high in sugar, and drink plenty of water for relief from the symptoms of ED. As a rule of thumb, one should drink 50% of their body weight in ounces of water daily. Men should also avoid alcohol and smoking, as it can increase the risk and even worsen the symptoms of ED.