A Glimpse into the Fascinating World of Biohacking and Longevity
There's a new trend that's been catching the attention of many: biohacking. Some people are going to great lengths to improve their sexual health, with the belief that it may potentially boost their overall lifespan. This includes taking specific medications, using unusual therapies, and undergoing unusual procedures. But what does science have to say about this? Let's delve into this topic.
Sexual Health as a Health Indicator
Dr. Ryan Welter, a groundbreaker in regenerative cell therapy, explains that many factors contribute to sexual health. These include erectile function, orgasmic function, libido, satisfaction with intercourse, and overall satisfaction. A decrease in sexual health, particularly erectile dysfunction, can often be an early sign of heart disease, sometimes appearing years before a heart attack.
High cholesterol and plaque buildup can reduce the blood flow needed for an erection. Also, nerve damage, common in aging and diseases like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and others, can hinder the signals from the brain to the pelvis, leading to erectile dysfunction. Furthermore, hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone, can reduce libido and the ability to achieve and maintain an erection.
Warning Signs of Poor Erectile Health
Chris Bustamante, a nurse practitioner specializing in aesthetics, explains that men may notice their erections are not as firm as before, they have difficulty maintaining erections, and changes in nocturnal and morning erections. Sudden changes in the quality, frequency, and duration of erections, especially when coupled with symptoms like rapid weight gain or shortness of breath, should prompt a visit to the doctor. The doctor will then assess the cardiovascular system, hormone levels, and look for any tumors.
Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
The most effective treatment for overall health and longevity, particularly for sexual health, is a healthy diet and regular exercise. Consuming fruits, vegetables, and fiber while limiting red meat and processed foods is beneficial. Regular exercise, specifically muscle-building exercises, is also recommended. However, Bustamante warns against cycling, as it can put pressure on the perineum, potentially damaging nerves and vessels over time.
Medications such as Cialis can also help by relaxing muscles in the prostate, bladder neck, and penis to boost urine flow and facilitate erections.
Exploring Biohacker Tools
Some biohackers are exploring low-intensity focused shockwave devices. These devices emit sound waves that cause micro-injuries in penile tissue, stimulating the growth of new blood vessels and increased blood circulation to improve penile sensitivity and function.
Other treatments include Botox, which temporarily relaxes muscles by blocking nerve signals that cause muscle contraction. When injected into the penis, patients report achieving firmer, quicker erections. However, the effects of Botox typically last only three to four months.
More experimental treatments include penile stem cell injections, which are not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These treatments lack strong evidence of safety or effectiveness.
Bustamante also cautions against the increasingly popular practice of injecting salmon sperm derivatives into the penile area, as it can cause infections, allergic reactions, and potentially unpleasant odors. Instead, he recommends "P-shots," injections of platelet-rich plasma from the patient's own blood into the penis to boost blood flow and stimulate tissue repair.
In conclusion, while there's still much to learn about the relationship between sexual health and overall longevity, it's clear that maintaining good sexual health is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.