Unmasking the "Viagra" Scam: Do Leeks, Aphrodisiac Wines Really Work? Four Scientific Approaches to Male Sexual Dysfunction in Middle Age

Unmasking the "Viagra" Scam: Do Leeks, Aphrodisiac Wines Really Work? Four Scientific Approaches to Male Sexual Dysfunction in Middle AgeDisclaimer: This article is based on authoritative medical information and personal opinions, and is original content. It has been exclusively published on Toutiao for 72 hours

Unmasking the "Viagra" Scam: Do Leeks, Aphrodisiac Wines Really Work? Four Scientific Approaches to Male Sexual Dysfunction in Middle Age

Disclaimer: This article is based on authoritative medical information and personal opinions, and is original content. It has been exclusively published on Toutiao for 72 hours. Some plot details are fictionalized for the purpose of popularizing health knowledge. Please be informed. References and screenshots are attached at the end. Thank you for supporting original content.

49-year-old Lao Sun recently felt a lack of energy and a decline in sexual function. His friend, Da Liu, suggested he eat leeks and drink aphrodisiac wine to "boost" his vitality. After a month of trying, not only did his condition not improve, but he also experienced bloating and weakness. This led him to question the efficacy of these so-called "aphrodisiac secrets." What truly effective and scientific methods can address sexual dysfunction in middle-aged men? This article will delve into this issue.

I. The Truth About Aphrodisiac Foods: Do Leeks, Lamb Kidneys, and Oysters Work?

Many believe certain foods have aphrodisiac effects, such as leeks, lamb kidneys, and oysters. These foods are highly regarded at the dinner table, but what is the scientific basis behind this?

Leeks, due to their pungent smell, are labeled as an "aphrodisiac herb." Indeed, leeks contain small amounts of zinc and sulfides, both of which are associated with men's health, especially zinc, which is beneficial for maintaining sperm quality. However, the content of these components in leeks is negligible, making it virtually impossible to achieve an "aphrodisiac" effect by consuming leeks. Choosing foods with higher zinc content would be more effective than consuming large quantities of leeks.

Lamb kidneys, based on the traditional belief of "shape-complementing," are considered to have kidney-tonifying and aphrodisiac effects. While consuming lamb kidneys can supplement protein, this has no direct relationship with kidney tonification or aphrodisiac effects. Furthermore, lamb kidneys are high in fat, and frequent consumption may increase the risk of hyperlipidemia and obesity.

Oysters, known as "sea milk," are rich in trace elements such as zinc and selenium, and are believed to be beneficial for male sexual function. However, if the body is not deficient in zinc, additional intake of oysters will not enhance sexual function. Excessive zinc intake can also lead to indigestion and gastrointestinal discomfort. Additionally, oysters are seafood and pose certain food safety risks; eating raw, unfresh oysters can even cause bacterial infections.

In short, foods like leeks, lamb kidneys, and oysters do not possess true aphrodisiac effects. They are simply ordinary ingredients with basic nutritional value. Expecting them to enhance sexual performance is unrealistic. Instead of pursuing these so-called "aphrodisiac foods," focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a good sleep schedule is the key to truly improving overall health.

II. The Scam of Trendy "Aphrodisiac Gadgets": The Truth About Aphrodisiac Wines and Maca

In recent years, many products claiming to have aphrodisiac effects, such as aphrodisiac wines and maca, have emerged on the market, becoming sought-after "gadgets" for many men. However, are these products truly effective?

Aphrodisiac wines, especially those marketed with ancient or secret formulas, are highly touted. Many believe that alcohol itself has a relaxing effect, and combined with various animal and plant ingredients, it must have aphrodisiac effects. However, alcohol itself does not enhance sexual function; it may even decrease sexual ability. Some aphrodisiac wines may even contain drugs like sildenafil, which may produce temporary effects but can cause side effects such as headaches, blurred vision, and cardiovascular problems with long-term use.

Maca, dubbed the "plant Viagra," once swept the globe. Merchants heavily advertised its ability to increase libido and enhance physical strength. In reality, maca is a root vegetable from South America, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It may help enhance physical strength and relieve fatigue, but it has no direct relationship with aphrodisiac effects. Excessive consumption of maca may even lead to hormonal imbalances, and long-term consumption may increase the risk of thyroid problems.

The marketing strategies of aphrodisiac wines and maca are similar; merchants exploit men's anxieties about sexual performance, exaggerating product efficacy, leading consumers to believe that these products can solve all their problems.

III. Four Scientific Approaches to Addressing Male Sexual Dysfunction in Middle Age

With age, a decline in sexual function is a normal physiological phenomenon and does not require excessive anxiety. The key is to avoid blindly seeking folk remedies or aphrodisiacs and instead find scientific solutions. The following four methods are truly effective:

1. Maintain a Balanced Diet: A balanced diet is crucial for sexual function. This doesn't mean consuming so-called "aphrodisiac dishes," but maintaining overall nutritional balance. Daily diets should include lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality proteins, while reducing fried foods and processed foods. Foods rich in zinc and selenium, such as lean meats and seafood, while not directly acting as aphrodisiacs, are beneficial for reproductive system health.

2. Maintain Regular Exercise to Enhance Physical Fitness: Exercise not only strengthens the body but also significantly improves sexual function. Several sessions of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as a 30-minute brisk walk daily, can significantly benefit physical fitness and sexual function.

3. Good Sleep and Stress Reduction: Long-term sleep deprivation and excessive fatigue severely damage sexual function. Lack of sleep leads to lethargy, poor concentration, and affects testosterone secretion, directly impacting libido and sexual ability. In daily life, learn to de-stress, rest appropriately, and avoid prolonged high-pressure situations. Relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help reduce stress, indirectly improving sexual function.

4. Regular Checkups and Monitoring Hormone Levels: After the age of 30 or 40, male hormone levels gradually decline, while androgens play a crucial role in libido and sexual function. If you notice a significant decrease in libido or sexual ability, in addition to improving lifestyle, you should have regular checkups. If androgen deficiency is detected, appropriate interventions, such as medication, can be taken under medical advice.

Sexual dysfunction is not frightening; the key is to address it scientifically. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and a regular sleep schedule, can truly maintain long-term sexual health.

IV. Beware of the Chaos in the Aphrodisiac Market: Identifying False Advertising and Making Rational Choices

The current aphrodisiac market is a mixed bag, with various aphrodisiacs, aphrodisiac wines, and kidney tonics emerging, claiming immediate effects. Many men, anxious about their sexual ability, are deceived into purchasing so-called "aphrodisiac products," which not only have no effect but may also harm their health.

The vast majority of aphrodisiac products on the market have not been scientifically verified. Merchants often use terms like "ancient secret recipe" and "all-natural without side effects" to attract consumers, but this advertising is often exaggerated. So-called ancient recipes may lack historical basis, and so-called all-natural ingredients are just a gimmick. Don't be misled by labels like "traditional" or "herbal." Many "aphrodisiacs" have complex compositions and uncertain quality.

More seriously, some merchants add drug ingredients, such as sildenafil, to their products to achieve short-term effects. While this may produce short-term results, it is the effect of the drug, not the herbs or supplements.

Aphrodisiac wines are also popular, especially those marketed with "precious Chinese herbs." Many believe they can enjoy alcohol and boost their sexual function simultaneously. However, alcohol itself inhibits sexual function, and long-term consumption can worsen sexual dysfunction.

Many men are reluctant to seek medical attention for fear of "losing face." Instead of seeking scientific examination and treatment at a regular hospital, they prefer to buy aphrodisiac products on their own, often resulting in unresolved problems and even health damage.

Faced with overwhelming advertising for aphrodisiac products, we must remain vigilant and learn to identify false advertising. If you have sexual dysfunction, it is best to consult a doctor at a regular hospital for professional diagnosis before taking appropriate treatment measures. Sexual dysfunction is not scary; blindly believing in aphrodisiac products is the biggest risk. Refuse to take or drink unverified products, and avoid being misled by false advertising.

Conclusion

So-called "aphrodisiac secrets" are mostly unscientific, often exaggerated, and may even pose health risks. Blindly believing in these products not only fails to improve sexual ability but may also damage your health. Sexual dysfunction is a normal physiological phenomenon. The key is to take scientific countermeasures instead of being misled by false advertising. Through balanced diet, regular exercise, good lifestyle habits, and psychological state, you can truly improve sexual function, calmly cope with the midlife crisis, and achieve lasting health and vitality.

References:

1. Do Aphrodisiac Foods Really Work? Reminder: These 4 Aphrodisiac Methods Are Deceptive, Don't Be Fooled (2022-09-01) Yizhe Liangyan

2. Do Aphrodisiac