Erections: The Overlooked Metric for Men’s Health
- Amara Life Labs
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 3
According to Dr. Kevin McVary, a leading urologist from the Mayo Clinic, erectile function is one of the most sensitive—and early—indicators of men’s overall health. In a recent episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, he broke down why men (and their doctors) need to stop ignoring this signal.
Erections as a Vital Sign
Morning erections aren’t just about testosterone—they’re about circulation, metabolic health, nervous system tone, mental health, and vascular function.
In fact, changes in erectile quality often precede cardiovascular events by 3–5 years.
"The penis is the canary in the coal mine. If something’s off with your blood vessels, erections are usually the first to go." – Dr. McVary, Mayo Clinic
What’s Actually Required for a Healthy Erection?
A functional erection depends on several factors:
Healthy endothelial function (the lining of your blood vessels)
Nitric oxide production (to trigger blood flow)
Optimal testosterone levels
Low systemic inflammation
Parasympathetic nervous system dominance (i.e., you can’t be in a stressed fight-or-flight state)
That means your lifestyle—sleep, movement, nutrition, recovery, and stress—plays a massive role.
What a Lack of Erections Might Be Telling You
If you’re not waking up with erections most mornings, here’s what might be happening under the hood:
A Daily Healthspan Check-In You’re Probably Ignoring
At Amara Life Labs, we help men track metrics that actually predict long-term performance—in the gym, in your brain, and whatever's good for your heart is good for your erection.
And this is the simplest daily signal we recommend:
Did you wake up with an erection this morning?
If the answer is consistently no, that’s not just a libido issue—it’s a metabolic, cardiovascular, or recovery problem. It’s worth exploring before the symptoms show up elsewhere.
What You Can Do Right Now
You don’t need to overcomplicate this. Here are five things that support erectile health—many of which we focus on in our programming:
Build zone 2 aerobic capacity → improves blood vessel function and nitric oxide production.
Prioritize deep, restorative sleep → testosterone is made at night, not in the gym.
Eat for blood sugar control and micronutrients → especially magnesium, zinc, Citruline, and beets.
Train legs + lift heavy → increases testosterone and growth hormone.
Manage stress deliberately → sympathetic dominance = shutdown mode.
The Bottom Line
If you’re ignoring your erectile health, you’re ignoring your cardiovascular system, hormone health, recovery status, and metabolic performance.
Erections aren’t just about sex. They’re about circulation, cellular function, and systemic resilience.
Want help interpreting your metrics—and improving them? Join us at Amara Life Labs, where we test, track, and coach the habits that drive male performance, healthspan, and longevity.
Understanding the Connection Between Erections and Overall Health
Erections serve as a crucial indicator of health. They reflect not just sexual function but also broader physiological processes. When we think about our health, we often focus on the obvious metrics. However, the state of our erections can reveal hidden issues.
The Role of Hormones
Hormones play a significant role in erectile function. Testosterone, in particular, is vital. Low testosterone can lead to reduced libido and weaker erections. Regular check-ups can help monitor hormone levels.
Lifestyle Factors Impacting Erections
Your daily habits significantly influence erectile health. Diet, exercise, and sleep are foundational. A balanced diet rich in nutrients supports vascular health. Regular exercise enhances blood flow and hormone production. Prioritizing sleep is essential for recovery and hormone regulation.
Stress and Mental Health
Mental health cannot be overlooked. Stress and anxiety can hinder erectile function. Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help. Finding balance in life is crucial for maintaining healthy erections.
When to Seek Help
If you notice persistent changes in your erectile function, it’s essential to seek professional advice. Early intervention can prevent more significant health issues down the line. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
Final Thoughts
Erections are more than just a sign of sexual health. They are a window into your overall well-being. By paying attention to this vital sign, you can take proactive steps toward optimizing your health.
At Amara Life Labs, we are committed to helping you understand and improve your health metrics. Join us in this journey toward enhanced healthspan and performance.
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