Erectile Dysfunction Reversed After Adoption of a Whole Food Plant-Based Diet: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the “canary in the coal mine” for coronary artery disease (CAD), typically presenting 3-5 years before CAD. Accordingly, vascular ED and CAD share similar risk factors. Case Summary: A 52-year-old male reported erectile dysfunction in 2019. In 2021, after coronary stent placement for stable CAD, he adopted a whole-food plant-based diet (WFPB) diet to improve his CAD risk. Within months, his erectile function began improving, and he experienced further improvement with increasing vegetable intake. By February 2024, he reported normal erectile function. Discussion: While prior literature describes modest improvement in erectile dysfunction with a Mediterranean diet, this case describes complete reversal of ED with a WFPB diet. By improving cardiovascular risk factors, a WFPB may ameliorate vascular function and vascular ED. Take Home Message: Erectile dysfunction secondary to atherosclerosis may be reversed with a whole food plant-based diet.