[이데일리 이순용 기자] It is an existence that adversely affects health to the extent that there is a saying, “Obesity is the root of all disease.” Recently, as the incidence of obesity increases in Korea, the incidence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure as well as diseases related to sexual function such as erectile dysfunction are increasing.
In fact, according to the ‘White Paper on Obesity’ published by the National Health Insurance Corporation, as a result of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, one in three adults were found to be obese. Specifically, the obesity rate for men in their 30s was 43.3%. This means that 2 out of every 5 people are obese.
The biggest problem with obesity is that it can lead to various complications. The risk of developing diabetes due to obesity is 2.6 times higher than normal people. Severe obesity is counted 4 to 4.8 times higher than this. In addition, in the case of hypertension, obesity was twice as high, and severe obesity was 2.7 to 2.9 times higher.
Another problem is that it can also impair sexual function. A typical example is erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction refers to a condition where an erection is not achieved or maintained sufficiently for sexual intercourse. If these symptoms persist for about 3 months, it can be defined as erectile dysfunction.
The main cause of obesity is an irregular lifestyle. In particular, nutrient oversupply is a problem directly linked to obesity. Frequent consumption of high calorie foods can lead to metabolic syndrome. Complications caused by metabolic syndrome lead to cardiovascular disease, which leads to erectile dysfunction. Metabolic syndrome leads to an imbalance of blood circulation, and at this time, the penile blood vessels in the corpus cavernosum, which achieve an erection, also narrow. This soon leads to impotence.
An erection occurs when there is congestion in the corpus cavernosum in the penis. Blood vessels in the penis are very thin, about 1 mm in diameter. When the blood becomes sticky due to metabolic syndrome, the penile blood vessels can become blocked more easily, causing symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Obesity also causes a disorder in the secretion of the male hormone testosterone. It also causes abnormalities in the secretion of neurotransmitters that are necessary for erection. Therefore, it is important to avoid high calorie foods and prevent obesity through regular exercise. In addition, it is essential to maintain a regular lifestyle.
Lee Moo-yeon, director of Adams Urology Clinic, said, “The metabolic processing capacity declines with age, and at this time, frequent consumption of high-calorie foods or excessive drinking can lead to obesity, which can lead to erectile dysfunction. ” If not, it is advisable to visit a urologist for a detailed consultation and examination.”
