For many men, alcohol can be a helpful aphrodisiac. However, when alcohol consumption becomes abusive, it can lead to impotence. Excessive alcohol consumption allows toxins to enter the bloodstream and alter the cerebrospinal fluid, a liquid that cushions the brain. In addition to sexual dysfunction, alcohol abuse can also lead to chronic fatigue, lack of concentration, poor memory, anxiety, dizziness and poor sleep quality.
The Loss of Nitric Oxide
Alcohol decreases the production of nitric oxide, a chemical that stimulates the penis for an erection. With nitric oxide levels lowered, the body increases its conversion of testosterone to estrogen. Once conversion occurs in high quantities, the body release prolactin, a protein that prevents dopamine from creating arousal. With arousal levels at an all-time low, those once rock-hard erections you would gain no longer appear. Instead, you suffer from weak or non-existent erections.
Minimizing the Issue
One of the most natural ways to fight alcohol-induced impotence is a change to your diet. By sticking to complex carbs, such as fruits and vegetables, and avoiding simple carbs, such as white bread and potato chips, men have shown a significant improvement in their erectile strength. Meanwhile, keeping the blood sugar levels steady can improve the production of bile to heal a damage liver.