Premature ejaculation may be the most common form of sexual dysfunction, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to understand. In fact, many men feel as though the condition swoops down out of nowhere, striking at random and then disappearing just as mysteriously. While it’s true the condition can be sporadic, it’s often the result of common behaviours or underlying issues. Here, we’ll take a look at five of the most common things men are doing which can easily trigger an episode.
- Eating Crappy Food
By now pretty much everyone knows fast food isn’t good for you. Nonetheless, around 44% of Americans are still hitting the drive-thru at least once a week and, in 2014, Americans spent over $100 billion at the 160,000 fast food restaurants scattered throughout the country. All that fast food means plenty of burgers, fries and soda which means tons of salt, fat and sugar – the trifecta of bad food. When you use that to fuel your body, you can’t be surprised when things go wrong and a poor diet is a leading cause of premature ejaculation as it inhibits circulation which can also lead to erectile dysfunction, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. The cure? Drive past the drive-thru and take a packed lunch to work or check out what’s on offer at a healthier grab and go place instead. Chipotle, Mo’s, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and other chains all offer healthier options these days so go crazy and grab something plant based, healthy and low fat for lunch.
- Lounging Around Too Much
We may be running for processed foods in record numbers, but we aren’t running for much else. The obesity epidemic in America has made headlines because of the health conditions extra weight can bring and, by now, we’re all used to the list, but sexual dysfunction is often omitted, even though weight plays a pivotal role in sexual well-being. Getting up off the couch and doing something active can help alleviate everything from depression to impotence so while you get caught up on your DVR, hop on a stationary bike, rowing machine or just go through some simple yoga positions to get the blood flowing.
- Stressing Out at Work
With the recent economic issues, many people are trying to hold onto their job whatever the cost. While a good work ethic is an admirable personality trait, taking things too seriously at work often means taking on more stress than is healthy. Cutting stress at work can cut your chances for a number of chronic conditions, including premature ejaculation.
- Bottling Your Feelings
For years, men were brought up to be tough and never show their feelings, but now we know that bottling your feelings doesn’t make them go away, it just displaces them. There are millions of men with ulcers, high blood pressure and a variety of sexual performance issues who can attest to that. You don’t need to start wearing your heart on your sleeve but clearing the air with family and friends and finding ways to unleash that pent up anger or frustration can help improve both your mental and physical health.
- Not Getting Checked Out
Finally there’s the biggest problem of all when it comes to guys – not going for a regular check-up. The truth is that premature ejaculation is rarely a part of an underlying medical condition, but it is possible. More to the point, stress over whether or not it could be ‘something bigger’ often makes the problem worse, which just feeds into a vicious cycle. Nip it in the bud and get checked out by a doctor. The appointment takes only a few minutes and not only can you finally get a clear conscience about it, your doctor may be able to help get you started on other forms of short and long-term therapy in order to resolve the issue once and for all.