There is a general medical consensus that one of the things that may cause a problem and lead to erectile dysfunction (ED) is a depletion of zinc in the body.

What can cause this? Well, one of the things is your diet. Another may involve the development of certain physical disorders and diseases. People with diabetes can have abnormally low zinc levels, for instance. “Proteomic analysis showed a significant decreased expression (P < 0.05) of 5 apolipoproteins and zinc..”*
Kidney disease is also characteristic of this kind of disorder.

What zinc does, as it directly relates to ED, is to increase the level of testosterone in the body.

So what can you do about it?

Well, you can alter your diet and include more foods that have a high zinc content to fight ED.

These foods may include turkey and chicken, for example, as well as beef. These foods are very high in protein; they are good for the heart and the reproductive system.

Whole grains fit the category of zinc-rich foods, and so does salmon. Remember also that shellfish is a healthy alternative from this perspective. This includes lobster, oysters, mussels and clams.  (also see: The 10 Best Foods that are High in Zinc)

You may want to consult with a physician if you have serious dietary concerns. For diet questions as they result in possible causes of ED, your best bet is to speak with a doctor who specializes in ED treatments.

*Source: Erectile dysfunction and diabetes: Association with the impairment of lipid metabolism and oxidative stress, Jan. 2016.