Complications of diabetes in men can range from kidney failure, temporary or permanent blindness to those that can affect sexual health. In this regard, regular monitoring and maintenance of the blood sugar level of the diabetic is of utmost importance. According to studies, high blood sugar levels have a negative impact on sex life. Let’s see why? Mechanism of erection Erection is a reflex vascular phenomenon that is due to parasympathetic impulses and leads to mental or physical arousal in men. It, in turn, provokes the release of nitric oxide in the body, which leads to a corresponding increase in the cyclic levels of guanosine monophosphate (GMP). The substance helps the flow of more blood to the penis, as a result of which the blood vessels in this area increase. The veins carrying blood from the penis are blocked during this process, making the penis hard. This is how you get an erection. After ejaculation, however, the body releases the substance phosphodiesterase, which counteracts the effects of cyclic guanosine monophosphate and causes the penis to return to normal size. The substance blocks blood flow to the penis and allows blood to “leak” out of the penis, thus reducing its hardness and size. Problems begin to grow when diabetes begins to affect two main components involved in this mechanism – the nerves and blood vessels. 1. Erectile dysfunction The inability to maintain an erection is sometimes due to natural causes, but if this problem lasts more than three months almost constantly, the origin of the problem should be sought. Erectile dysfunction in diabetes is a common problem in men. According to statistics, more than 1/3 of men suffering from diabetes have erection problems. Erectile dysfunction occurs when the blood vessels in the penis and the nerves in that area are damaged. It is believed that smoking, obesity and lack of physical activity, as well as taking medications for depression, high blood pressure, heartburn and stomach ulcers, can be the basis of erectile dysfunction. Diabetes leads to an increase in cholesterol levels, which significantly narrows blood vessels. For this reason, the movement of blood directed to the penis during erection is disturbed and blocked, thus leading to erectile dysfunction. 2. Decreased Testosterone Levels Research shows that people with type 2 diabetes usually suffer from significantly low testosterone levels. There are several easily noticeable symptoms that help diagnose the problem: decreased libido, depression, lethargy and lack of energy, sudden weight loss, erectile dysfunction, increased irritability. Diabetic men should know that sometimes sex can lead to low levels of blood sugar. That is why regular and proper nutrition during the day is important.The advice of the experts is not to have sex on a completely empty stomach, and why not have a romantic evening not include alternation of pleasant physical pleasures with light healthy snacks…