To maintain healthy erectile function, individuals can adopt several proactive strategies: 

• Engage in Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly to enhance cardiovascular health. Research indicates that increased physical activity can significantly reduce the incidence of erectile dysfunction (ED), particularly in obese men, where lifestyle changes including exercise led to improvements in erectile function scores. 
• Follow a Nutritious Diet: Incorporate foods that promote vascular health, such as leafy greens, nuts, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and dark chocolate. A balanced diet not only supports overall health but also enhances testosterone levels and vascular function, which are crucial for maintaining erections. 
• Manage Weight: Focus on achieving a healthy body weight through balanced nutrition and physical activity. Studies show that significant weight loss can restore erectile function in about one-third of obese men with ED, highlighting the importance of weight management in sexual health. 
• Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol: Seek support for smoking cessation and adhere to recommended alcohol consumption guidelines. Smoking has detrimental effects on vascular health, while excessive alcohol can impair sexual performance and testosterone levels. 
• Prioritize Mental Health: Address stress through relaxation techniques or professional counseling when needed. Psychological factors such as anxiety and depression can significantly impact sexual performance, making mental health management essential for erectile health

The following are the commonest aggravating factors: 

• Obesity: Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, both of which negatively impact erectile function. 
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to poor cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of ED. 
• Chronic Stress and Anxiety: Psychological factors significantly influence sexual performance; managing stress through techniques like meditation or therapy can improve erectile health36. 
• Poor Sleep Quality: Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea have been linked to ED; ensuring adequate rest is essential for overall health6.

A long lasting erection helps in the following manner: 

• Enhanced Sexual Satisfaction: Longer-lasting erections can lead to more fulfilling sexual encounters, allowing for greater exploration and intimacy between partners. 
• Emotional Well-being: Successful sexual experiences can boost self-esteem and reduce anxiety related to performance, contributing to better mental health. 
• Relationship Quality: A healthy sexual life often correlates with stronger emotional bonds, fostering better communication and connection between partners.
  

A long-lasting erection typically refers to an erection that is firm enough for sexual activity and lasts longer than the average duration, which is usually a few minutes to about half an hour. If an erection lasts more than four hours without sexual stimulation, it may indicate a condition known as priapism, which requires immediate medical attention.

Stress can significantly affect erectile function by increasing levels of adrenaline in the body, which constricts blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the penis. Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or therapy can improve sexual performance.