What are the benefits of dates for men?

How beneficial are dates for men?

Medically reviewed by Grant Tinsley, PhD — Written by Mary West on March 22, 2021

This article is a repost which originally appeared on MEDICALNEWSTODAY

Edited for content

Research does not show that eating dates provides any sexual health benefits for males. That said, the fruit’s high nutrient content may promote general wellness and help prevent disease for people of all sexes.

Potential benefits

Some studies suggest that dates may benefit health in several ways. The following sections will look at what the research says in more detail.

They may help treat infertility

In traditional African medicine practices, people have long used dates to treat male infertility. However, there is scarce scientific research to support their effectiveness for this purpose, according to one study. This study is yet to undergo peer review.

The researchers tested the effects of dates on the fertility of rats with neurotoxin-induced infertility.

The dates reduced signs of infertility in the rats, but they also reduced levels of the hormone testosterone, which is linked to fertility.

The researchers suggest that future studies should try to identify a safe amount of dates for treating infertility.

Scientists need to do much more research into the effects of dates on fertility in humans before they can make any recommendations about using dates for this purpose.

They may boost brain health

A scientific review from 2016 notes that some studies have linked regular date consumption to better thinking skills and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s impairs memory and the ability to think. The review suggests that long-term use of date fruit supplements in rodents was associated with reduced plaque formation in the brain. These plaques are characteristic in people with Alzheimer’s.

They may help alleviate chronic disease due to their antioxidants

Unstable molecules called free radicals can cause a process known as oxidative stress.

Scientists believe that oxidative stress plays a role in the development of certain chronic conditions. These include cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cardiovascular disease.

Dates have strong antioxidant properties with the potential to improve chronic conditions.

They may increase skin health

Topical creams containing dates may improve skin health.

Research suggests that the application of date creams to the skin can improve skin moisture content, elasticity, and brightness. The authors also note that dates in skin care may reduce the effects of aging on the skin.

None of the participants using the cream reported side effects, and the dates appeared to be safe for use on the skin.

They may help with diabetes

Diabetes involves reduced blood sugar control. A scientific review that analyzed the available research on the topic suggests that dates have the potential to treat diabetes due to their antioxidant content.

Some studies in the review indicate that dates can improve the function of the pancreas in secreting insulin, which is the hormone that helps maintain normal blood sugar levels. Other studies indicate that dates may help with the complications of diabetes.

In addition, dates are high in fiber, meaning that the body absorbs them slowly during digestion. This helps keep a person’s blood sugar levels stable. High blood sugar levels can be a chronic issue in people with diabetes.

Their fiber content may help prevent certain conditions

The fiber in dates can also help with other conditions.

One study suggests that dietary fiber can help protect against diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. In addition, fiber may help reduce the risk of conditions involving the gastrointestinal tract, such as constipation, colon cancer, and ulcers.

Risks and considerations

Dates are a nutrient-rich type of fruit that may have various health benefits. The only possible drawback is that they are high in sugar, according to one study.

People who are trying to moderate their daily calorie intake may wish to limit their intake of dates because they are calorie dense.

Despite the fruit’s sugar content, the study authors say that low-to-moderate consumption is likely safe for anyone, including people with diabetes. This is because the fiber in dates causes the body to digest them slowly, helping prevent unhealthy blood sugar spikes.

However, a person wishing to take supplements containing dates should consult a doctor first. This is because supplements may not always provide the same health benefits as food.

Nutritional information for dates

Below is the nutritional information Source for a 100-gram (g) serving of dates, which is about four dates.

Amount Daily Value
Calories 277
Protein 1.81 g 4%
Total fat 0.15 g 0%
Carbohydrates 75 milligrams (mg) 27%
Fiber 6.7 g 24%
Vitamin A 149 international units 3%
Vitamin B6 0.25 mg 19%
Manganese 0.3 mg 13%
Copper 0.36 mg 40%
Magnesium 54 mg 14%
Potassium 696 mg 15%

According to some research, dates also contain:

  • Phenolic acids: These are types of antioxidants that help protect against disease.
  • Enzymes: These are molecules that make biochemical reactions happen.
  • Carotenoids: These are orange, yellow, and red pigments that are important for various functions.

How to include dates in the diet

Here are some ideas for how to add dates to an eating plan:

  • Breakfasts: Sprinkle dates into oatmeal or add them to dough when making muffins.
  • Salads: Mix dates into any kind of salad.
  • Snacks: Combine dates with other dried fruits and nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to make a trail mix.
  • Lunches: Include dates in a tuna or chicken salad wrap made with whole wheat tortillas.
  • Main dishes: Add dates to a turkey meatloaf recipe or include them in stews and soups.
  • Desserts: Make a parfait with layers of yogurt, diced dates, and berries.
  • Smoothies: Blend dates with almond milk, peanut butter, bananas, and ice to make a smoothie.
  • Sugar substitute: Puree dates and substitute them for sugar in recipes.
  • Energy balls: Pulse dates in a food processor. Mix in natural peanut butter, chopped dark chocolate, and rolled oats. Roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate.

Summary

Scientists need to do more research before they can make any claims about the specific health benefits of dates for men or fertility.

However, preliminary studies suggest that dates may help with other aspects of health, including cognition and blood sugar control, for people of any sex.

The vitamin, mineral, fiber, and antioxidant contents of dates make them a nutritious type of food to include in the diet. There are several creative ways to add them to an eating plan.

Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

 

Penis health: Conditions, safety, lifestyle, and care

What to know about penis health

Medically reviewed by Kevin Martinez, M.D. — Written by Jenna Fletcher on April 2, 2020

This article is a repost which originally appeared on MEDICAL NEWS TODAY

Edited for content

A healthy penis should be free of lesions, warts, and abnormal discharge. In general, the penis should be roughly the same color as the surrounding skin, though it may be a shade darker or lighter.

Also, a person should not experience any pain in their penis when urinating or engaging in sexual activity.

A sudden change in the appearance, sensation, or function of the penis may signal an underlying issue that requires medical attention.

This article describes certain lifestyle factors and health conditions that can affect penis health. It also outlines some possible symptoms of poor penis health and provides tips on penis care.

Lifestyle factors that affect penis health

Lifestyle factors that can affect penis health include sexual relationships, weight management, and alcohol use.

The sections below outline some common lifestyle factors that can affect penis health.

Sexual relationships

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can negatively affect penis health. Some of the most common STIs include:

  • human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • chlamydia
  • gonorrhea
  • herpes

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that people practice safe sex in order to reduce their risk of contracting an STI. This involves using barrier methods during sexual activity and getting vaccinated against hepatitis B and HPV.

The following can also help reduce the risk of spreading and contracting STIs:

  • limiting the number of sexual partners
  • maintaining a monogamous sexual relationship
  • abstaining from sexual activity

Often, people who contract an STI do not experience any symptoms. This is why it is important for people who are sexually active to attend regular sexual health screenings.

Weight management

Obesity can negatively affect many aspects of a person’s health, including penis function.

People with obesity may be more likely to experience erectile dysfunction, or impotence. This occurs when a person is unable to develop or maintain an erection during sexual activity.

According to the Obesity Action Coalition, obesity can contribute to erectile dysfunction by:

  • decreasing testosterone levels
  • causing inflammation throughout the body
  • damaging the blood vessels, including those that supply blood to the penis

However, one 2018 study suggests that the relationship between obesity and sexual health is not completely clear. Although obesity may contribute to erectile dysfunction, other factors may also give rise to poor sexual health. These include:

  • anxiety
  • stress
  • self-esteem issues

Diet

Eating a healthful, balanced diet can help prevent obesity and related sexual health problems.

A 2017 animal study investigated the potential link between diet, obesity, and erectile function. In this study, one group of rats consumed a calorie-rich diet, while a second group consumed a standard diet.

The rats that consumed the calorie-rich diet were more likely to develop obesity, and they also showed significantly poorer erectile function.

The types of food a person eats could also affect their penis health. For example, one 2016 study found that a diet rich in flavonoids was associated with a reduced risk of erectile dysfunction in men below the age of 70.

Flavonoids are chemicals that occur naturally in a range of vegetables, fruits, and grains. Some examples of flavonoid-rich foods include:

  • root vegetables
  • legumes
  • berries
  • grapes
  • citrus fruits
  • teas
  • chocolate

Exercise

Exercise is important in helping a person maintain a moderate weight. This means that it also helps reduce the risk of obesity-related sexual health concerns.

Exercise may also benefit sexual health more directly. For example, one 2015 study investigated whether or not regular walking exercise could help improve erectile dysfunction in men who had recently had a heart attack.

Those who took part in the regular walking program reported a 71% decrease in erectile dysfunction symptoms. Those who did not take part in the program reported a 9% increase in erectile dysfunction symptoms.

The researchers conclude that regular exercise may help reduce symptoms of erectile dysfunction.

A 2011 meta-analysis investigated the effects of aerobic exercise on erectile dysfunction. The researchers analyzed five studies involving a total of 385 participants.

All the studies showed improvements in erectile dysfunction following aerobic activity. The researchers conclude that men with erectile dysfunction may benefit from aerobic training, though further studies are necessary to confirm this.

Alcohol and tobacco use

Drinking a lot of alcohol can negatively impact many aspects of a person’s health.

According to the CDC, excessive drinking can interfere with male hormone production, potentially contributing to impotence and infertility.

Alcohol also increases the likelihood that a person will engage in risky sexual behavior. Such behavior puts a person at increased risk of contracting or transmitting an STI.

Tobacco smoking can also have a negative effect on penis health. According to the Truth Initiative, smoking may play a role in the following sexual health issues:

  • erectile dysfunction
  • infertility
  • decreased libido

Health conditions that may affect penis health

There are several health conditions that can directly affect penis health. Some of the more common ones include:

  • STIs, such as chlamydia, herpes, or genital warts
  • phimosis, which occurs when the foreskin cannot extend over the head of the penis
  • balanitis, which is inflammation of the head or foreskin of the penis

Other conditions not directly related to the penis can also affect its health. Many of these conditions may cause erectile dysfunction or issues with fertility. These include:

  • obesity
  • diabetes
  • high blood pressure
  • stress
  • certain heart conditions

When to see a doctor

Anyone who is sexually active should check for symptoms of STIs regularly. They should look for:

  • rashes, sores, or blisters on the penis
  • burning or itching sensations in the penis
  • abnormal discharge from the penis
  • a foul odor coming from the penis or groin area
  • pelvic pain
  • pain when urinating or passing stools

Anyone who thinks that they may have an STI should visit their doctor for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Importantly, many people who contract an STI will not experience any symptoms. Regular sexual health screenings will help detect STIs that a person may not have noticed otherwise.

Anyone who thinks that they may have erectile dysfunction should also see their doctor, who will work to diagnose the cause.

How to care for the penis

A person should clean their penis at least once per day using a mild soap. Using abrasive or heavily scented soaps could irritate the skin of the penis.

A person should wash all parts of the penis, including:

  • the pubic hair
  • the scrotum
  • the area between the legs and scrotum
  • the penis shaft
  • the area underneath the foreskin, if uncircumcised

Tips for a healthy penis

The tips below can help a person keep their penis healthy:

  • using a barrier method during sex
  • limiting the number of sexual partners they have
  • undergoing a sexual health screening at least once per year if in a monogamous relationship
  • undergoing a sexual health screening as often as every 3–6 months if having sex with multiple partners
  • keeping the penis and genital area clean
  • limiting alcohol consumption
  • avoiding the use of tobacco products
  • exercising regularly
  • eating a healthful, balanced diet

Summary

A person can take several steps to maintain the health of their penis. This includes exercising regularly and eating a healthful diet. A person may also wish to avoid having unprotected sex, drinking a lot of alcohol, and using tobacco products.

To maintain a healthy penis, a person should thoroughly wash the penis at least once per day. Those who are sexually active should also go for sexual health screenings at least once per year and perform regular self-checks at home.

If a person has any concerns about their penis, they should talk to a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will work to diagnose the cause of the issue and provide appropriate treatments.

 

Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Fertility Tests for Men: Options and How They Work

All About Male Fertility Testing

Medically reviewed by Carolyn Kay, M.D. — Written by Rhona Lewis on November 30, 2020

This article is a repost which originally appeared on Healthline

Edited for content

If you’re planning to father a child, know that fertility is a 50-50 deal: half egg, half sperm. So it probably isn’t coincidental that male fertility is a factor in 50 percent of infertility challenges.

This isn’t a blame game, though. It’s about empowering yourself with the knowledge you need to get the outcome you want. If you and your partner are having a hard time getting pregnant, it’s a good idea for you — both of you — to get checked.

Let’s take a look at male fertility testing and what may (or may not) be contributing to the challenge of having a child.

Factors that can affect male fertility

Research shows that male infertility affects up to 6 percent of men in North America. But what causes it? Several factors could contribute:

  • anatomical or genetic abnormalities
  • systemic or neurological diseases
  • infections
  • trauma
  • gonadotoxic radiation therapy
  • sperm antibodies

Can you just use a home fertility test kit and call it a day?

When you’re feeling the sting of another letdown, you may start weighing the pros and cons of home fertility tests. These lists give you a full picture:

The pluses

  • A home kit relieves you of the stress of providing a sperm sample in the doctor’s office.
  • Your concerns remain private.
  • The kits are inexpensive, as well as quick and easy to use.
  • A good kit, like SpermCheck Fertility can reliably tell you whether your sperm count is typical, low, or very low. This will help you plan your next step.

The minuses

  • Home kits won’t give you all the information you need. While they can tell you if your sperm count is normal or not, these numbers are only one factor in male fertility.
  • The range for low and optimal sperm counts varies between the kits.
  • Some kits don’t measure sperm counts below certain levels.

For these reasons, while a home kit might be a helpful first step, you’ll need to be medically evaluated by a doctor for a more complete picture of your fertility.

What to expect at an initial medical evaluation appointment

You’ve booked the initial appointment. Knowing that you’re prepped will ease any tension you may be feeling. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.

First comes the physical exam. The medical practitioner will examine your penis and testicles.

Next, you’ll be asked questions about your:

  • medical history
  • lifestyle
  • sex life

Questions about your medical history may include:

  • Which medications do you take?
  • Have you had any sexually transmitted infections?
  • Have you had past surgeries?

Questions about your lifestyle may include:

  • How much do you exercise? (Give an honest answer!)
  • Do you smoke or take recreational drugs?

When it comes to your sex life, you can expect a frank discussion that includes any problems you may have, such as:

  • erectile dysfunction (ED)
  • delayed ejaculation
  • retrograde ejaculation

Semen Analysis

After the physical exam and the questions, you’ll be asked to provide a semen sample.

How semen analysis is done

Semen samples are given in two different ways.

You can ejaculate into a special container at the doctor’s office. If this isn’t an option because of your religious or cultural beliefs, you can use a special condom during intercourse.

Be prepared to possibly provide several samples, because sperm counts do fluctuate from one specimen to the next.

What semen analysis shows about fertility

You’ve done your part by providing the sample. Now it’s up to the clinician to analyze it. According to a 2015 study done in India, as much as 2 percent of all men have sperm measurements that aren’t optimal.

So what is your doctor looking for? In a nutshell:

  • Signs of infection. The presence of certain bacteria in semen can indicate infection.
  • Volume of semen. This is a measurement of how much semen in total is in your sample.
  • Sperm concentration. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies sperm counts at or above 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen as average.
  • Vitality. This examines what percentage of sperm are alive.
  • Motility. Are the sperm moving? Above 63 percent motility indicates fertility, while less than 32 percent of sperm with motility indicates subfertility.
  • Morphology. How are the sperm shaped? Believe it or not, the majority of sperm in your sample won’t be perfect. But if more than 12 percent are of normal size and shape, it indicates fertility. A sample with less than 9 percent normal morphology could mean sub- or infertility. (Between 9 and 12 percent is inconclusive.)

So much for the numbers. Now let’s crunch them.

While the numbers help to distinguish between fertility, subfertility, and indeterminate fertility, none of them actually diagnoses infertility. That said, here are two things to keep in mind:

  • A semen sample with a decreased sperm concentration often also shows abnormalities in sperm motility and morphology.
  • The percentage of sperm with normal morphology is perhaps the best indicator of healthy semen.

Urinalysis

Sometimes, sperm cells pass all the standard medical tests for fertility, but you still have trouble growing your family.

That could indicate a condition called normozoospermic infertility, meaning that the sperm cells themselves are infertile. Here’s where urinalysis comes in.

How urinalysis is done

At the doctor’s office or the testing facility, you’ll be given a plastic cup and asked to be provide a small, clean urine sample. Use the cleaning wipe you’ve been given to wipe around your urethra to prevent bacteria on your penis from entering the cup.

What urinalysis shows about fertility

A 2014 study shows that doctors can now test for normozoospermic infertility by tracking the levels of five biomarkers (small molecules) in urine.

While standard fertility tests may capture 75 percent of cases, the researchers were able to correctly identify 86 percent of the infertile men and 87 percent of the fertile men.

What does that mean for you? While there’s still more research needed in this area, researchers suggest that the variant levels of these biomarkers may point to physiological problems as the root of normozoospermic infertility.

Making sperm is an energy-intensive process and any spoke in the production wheel could disrupt proper sperm production. The more we learn about the biomarkers, the easier it will be to fix any physiological problems.

Hormone testing

The pituitary gland, hypothalamus, and testicles work together when it comes to sperm production.

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) — acting together with testosterone, which is produced in the testicles — are involved in the process.

A simple blood test will show the level of these three important hormones in your blood.

FSH

This hormone contributes to sperm production.

High levels may indicate that your testicles aren’t functioning properly or have been damaged by disease, X-rays, or chemotherapy. Low levels may show that you aren’t producing sperm.

LH

This is produced in the pituitary gland. In the testes, LT binds to receptors in the Leydig cells to release testosterone, which is needed to produce sperm.

LH levels can also be measured after giving an injection of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). The advantage to measuring LH this way is that your doctor can then pinpoint whether the problem is with your pituitary gland or another part of your body.

Testosterone

Healthy testosterone levels for men range between 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Keep in mind that after the age of 40, testosterone levels decrease by an average of around 1 percent every year.

Imaging to check for anatomical issues and any obstructions

In some cases, your doctor may ask for imaging to check that your anatomical structure is OK and that there are no obstructions.

Scrotal ultrasound

In this exam, a handheld probe is swept across your scrotum. The scan uses high-frequency sound waves to check for:

  • infections
  • cysts
  • a collection of fluids inside the testicles
  • tumors

The test also checks for testicular torsion and varicoceles. While many adult men have a varicocele and are never bothered by it, if you’re dealing with infertility, your doctor may recommend surgery.

Transrectal ultrasound

A small, lubricated wand is inserted into your rectum. The imaging helps your doctor to check your prostate and check that there are no blockages in the vas deferens. Blockages can be corrected with surgery.

Anti-sperm antibodies testing

Usually, sperm doesn’t come into contact with the rest of your body and immune system. However, injury, surgery, or prostate gland infections can interfere with this protective system.

And when sperm comes into contact with your immune system, the body may produce anti-sperm antibodies.

Your doctor may ask for an anti-sperm antibody test if the cause for infertility is still missing.

You’ll be asked to provide a sample of semen. The test checks your semen for antibodies that fight against your sperm by using a substance that binds only to affected sperm.

The higher the level of sperm affected by antibodies, the lower the chance of a sperm fertilizing an egg. (These antibodies can also be found in women, so your doctor may ask for your partner to get tested too.)

Doctors are divided over whether this testing is advisable. Some say it doesn’t help set a treatment plan for infertility; others advise taking medication to lower the body’s immune response.

Testicular biopsy

This test may come at the end of the line if the other tests you’ve done aren’t conclusive.

In this test, a sample is removed from the testicle, either with a needle or through a small cut. If the results of the testicular biopsy show that sperm production is normal, your infertility may be caused by a blockage or some other problem with sperm transport.

Genetic testing

Following the development of in vitro fertilizing techniques, research on genetic causes for infertility has expanded. Genetic abnormalities are found in 10 percent to 20 percent of men who have severe disorders with sperm production.

Genetic testing carried out on DNA can help rule out chromosomal abnormalities, especially in men with either azoospermia (no sperm present in the semen) or oligozoospermia (low sperm count).

The test results can:

  • relieve you of uncertainty
  • help you avoid unnecessary surgical or medical treatments
  • help you make informed decisions on what your next steps should be

If everything checks out A-OK for you and your partner

If you’ve done all the tests and everything has come up as normal, you may hear your doctor saying “idiopathic infertility.” Basically, this means that at the moment, there’s no way of figuring out the cause for your infertility.

While it won’t ease your frustration and pain, know that your uncertainty is shared by many. Idiopathic infertility is an extremely common infertility diagnosis in both men and women.

The bottom line

Depending on your diagnosis, you may find that you need to draw on reserves that you never knew you had.

But there are many options for medically assisted pregnancy. And remember many male infertility diagnoses can be successfully treated.

8 Penis-Friendly Foods to Boost T-Levels, Sperm Count, and More

The best way to boost penis health? Food.

Medically reviewed by Katherine Marengo, LDN, RD — Written by Tiffany LaForge — Updated on October 23, 2018

This article is a repost which originally appeared on HealthLine

Edited for content

We often eat with our hearts and stomachs in mind, but how often do we consider how foods affect extremely specific body parts?

First things first though: no matter what we eat, the benefits are holistic — it goes where our bodies need it.

But, let’s say, if you know, that apples and carrots are good for your prostate and penis health, wouldn’t you be inclined to eat these foods more often?

That’s the goal of our below-the-belt food list.

Instead of eating as if your penis needs special attention, fill your day with foods that optimize your whole body, and in turn, help your blood bring the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals your penis needs to function. (Erectile dysfunction in younger men is rising and about 1 in 9 men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.)

On the plus side, enhancing your diet just might help with other concerns, such as heart disease, hormonal imbalances, fat burn, and more.

From prostate cancer, low T-levels, ED, and possibly infertility, these foods are here to help.

1. Spinach to boost testosterone levels

Spinach worked for Popeye, and it’ll help you, too.

Spinach is a super source of folate, a known blood flow-booster. Folic acid plays a critical role in male sexual function and a deficiency in folic acid has been linked to erectile dysfunction.

Cooked spinach contains 66 percent of your daily folic acid requirement per cup, making it one of the most folate-rich foods around. Additionally, spinach contains a fair amount of magnesium, which also helps improve and stimulate blood flow and has been shown to boost testosterone levels.

Spinach for penile health

  • A good source of folic acid which may help prevent erectile dysfunction.
  • Contains magnesium which has been shown to boost testosterone.
  • Pro-tip: Try our favorite spinach recipes for your next date night.

2. A daily cup of coffee for better sex

Your morning cup of java can be a below-the-belt pick-me-up, too!

Studies have found that drinking two to three cups of coffee a day may prevent erectile dysfunction. This is thanks to coffee’s most beloved ingredient: caffeine.

Caffeine is shown to improve blood flow by relaxing penile arteries and muscles, leading to stronger erections. Cheers!

Caffeine for penile health

  • Caffeine has been shown to prevent erectile dysfunction.
  • Improves blood flow by relaxing penile arteries and muscles.
  • Pro-tip: Not a fan of coffee? You can get your daily caffeine fix from Yerba Mate or matcha instead.

3. Apple peels to prevent prostate cancer

Apples have some great all-around health benefits, but one of their lesser known advantages pertains to penis health.

Apple peels, in particular, contain the active compound ursolic acid. This compound has been shown in cell studies to stop the growth of prostate cancer cells by “starving” the cells. Still, you should always follow a medical professional’s treatment plan when faced with prostate cancer.

Eat more fruits and veggies Grapes, berries, and turmeric also have similar effects. Studies suggest that men who consume more fruits and vegetables in general have better odds at beating prostate cancer.

Apples for penile health

  • Contain an active compound that may starve prostate cancer cells.
  • Men who consume more fruits and vegetables have a better prostate cancer survival rate.
  • Pro-tip: The cancer-fighting compound is contained in the peel so be sure to eat your apples with the skin on. You can also make dried apple chips or apple peel tea.

4. Supercharge your libido with avocados

The Aztecs were on to something when they named the avocado tree the “testicle tree.”

An excellent source of healthy fats, potassium, and vitamins, avocados are great for getting you in the mood.

This toast-topper favorite has vitamin E and zinc, both of which have positive effects on male sex drive and fertility. Zinc has been suggested to increase levels of free testosterone in the body, while vitamin E may improve sperm quality.

Avocados for penile health

  • Contain zinc which increases testosterone levels.
  • Are a good source of vitamin E which improves sperm quality.
  • Pro-tip: Out of ideas beyond guacamole and toast? Find inspiration with our 23 delicious ways to eat an avocado.

5. Chili peppers to spice up the bedroom

Can you handle the heat? Studies have found that men who consume spicy foods have higher-than-average testosterone levels.

While this doesn’t mean spicy food gives you testosterone, the chemical capsaicin has been shown to have bedroom advantages.

Found in hot sauce and chili peppers, capsaicin triggers the release of endorphins — the “feel good” hormone — and can rev up the libido.

Chili peppers for penile health

  • Men who eat spicy foods have higher-than-average T-levels.
  • Capsaicin found in chili peppers triggers the release of endorphins.
  • Pro-tip: There’s more health benefits to spicy foods than a healthy libido. Read about our top five here.

6. Carrots keep your sperm healthy

Looking to improve your sperm count? Science says to eat more carrots.

This fertility superfood may improve both sperm count and motility (the movement and swimming of sperm).

Research suggests this is due to the chemical carotenoids found in carrots, which is also responsible for giving the vegetable its orange color.

Carrots for penile health

  • Research finds that carrots can improve male fertility.
  • Carotenoids found in carrots may improve sperm quality and motility.
  • Pro-tip: Another vegetable high in carotenoids is sweet potatoes, which makes our list of the 14 healthiest vegetables on earth alongside carrots.

7. Oats for a bigger O

Oatmeal might not come to mind when you think of the world’s sexiest foods — but maybe it should!

Oats can be beneficial for reaching orgasm and Avena Sativa (wild oats) is considered an aphrodisiac. The amino acid L-arginine found in oats has also been shown to treat erectile dysfunction.

Like Viagra, L-arginine helps penile blood vessels relax, which is essential to maintaining an erection and reaching orgasm.

Oats for penile health

  • Wild oats are a known aphrodisiac.
  • Amino acids found in oats relax blood vessels and can help with erectile dysfunction.
  • Pro-tip: New to oats? Try our quick and easy 10-minute overnight oats, made three ways.

8. Tomatoes are a penile health trifecta

Want all the benefits in one punch? Start with tomatoes.

Tomatoes include several of the benefits listed above and can be eaten in a variety of ways.

Research shows lycopene-rich foods, like tomatoes, may help prevent prostate cancer.

Tomatoes might also be beneficial to male fertility and sperm quality — as tomatoes seem to significantly improve sperm concentration, motility, and morphology.

Tomatoes for penile health

  • Help prevent prostate cancer.
  • Are beneficial to male fertility and improve sperm concentration, motility, and morphology.
  • Pro-tip: Too busy to make your own marinara? You don’t just have to cook with tomatoes. Try drinking tomato juice for a quick and healthy way to get your daily lycopene.

Looking for more ways to ensure below-the-belt health? Check out our best tips to prevent prostate cancer and non-penile advice on improving your sex life.

After all, your health is more than one body part.