Take heart (meds) — they don’t cause ED

A study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology reveals that, when guys (mean age 61) with heart disease experience sexual dysfunction, they shouldn’t blame it on statins or specific antihypertensive meds they’re taking (the study looked at an angiotensin II receptor blocker and diuretic). The incidence of ED is virtually the same whether or not guys take a statin, high blood pressure meds or a placebo.

In fact, for some, statins can improve sexual function. And Harvard researchers say blood pressure drugs — alpha-blockers, ACE inhibitors, as well as angiotensin-receptor blockers — rarely cause ED. According to a 2003 study, when participants were told HBP meds had sexual side effects, 33 percent developed them. When participants were

NOT told, only 3 percent did!

So abandoning life-saving heart medications won’t revive your love life. All you’ll end up with is a greater risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and more-severe ED. Instead, talk with your doctor about medical treatments and increasing your physical activity; manage stress; cuddle your honey; and eliminate sat and trans fats, added sugars and syrups and highly processed foods from your diet!

Walking with the 3 C’s

Every year in more than 300 cities, over a million people participate in the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk to raise money and awareness about heart disease.

Walking is great for heart health, but you need to keep it up. A new review reveals how you can do just that. It looked at evidence from 18 studies that followed healthy adults, tracking whether they walked in groups, alone or not at all. The researchers found that those who participated in group walking were most likely to stick with it. That’s because a buddy system builds the 3 C’s: commitment, community and continuity.

If you and your friends have been talking about a walking routine:

Make a plan with a pal (or two or three or more) and sign a Buddy Exercise Agreement.

For your walks, try different neighborhoods, local trails or parks.

Check in regularly with anyone who misses a session to help them get back on track (you’ll benefit too).

And don’t put it off: Getting outside in the winter sunshine can raise your spirits, boost your vitamin D and help strengthen your bones. Plus, exercise helps make you less vulnerable to this winter’s colds and flu.

Email questions for Mehmet Oz and Mike Roizen to youdocsdaily@sharecare.com.