The parents and teachers taught those of us who grew up Adventist that masturbation (which Ellen White called “a solitary vice”) was bad for our health. So I researched to see what I could find on the relation of masturbation to diabetes.

“Scientists in Australia say they have found evidence that self-pleasuring by touching one’s own genitals can help improve overall health.” They add that “masturbating may even cut the risk of type 2 diabetes in both sexes (though this may also be explained by better overall health), reduce insomnia through hormonal and tension release, and help stave off depression and boost the body’s immune system by raising levels of endorphins—the brain’s feel-good chemicals—and the hormone cortisol.”

Another article says, “Societal perspectives of masturbation still vary greatly, and there’s even some stigma around engaging in the act. Related to this stigma are the many myths about masturbation, myths so ridiculous it’s a wonder anyone believes them. They include: masturbation causes blindness and insanity; masturbation can make sexual organs fall off; and masturbation causes infertility…. The actual fact is that masturbation has many health benefits.”

Erectile dysfunction is common in diabetic men. Diabetes can also affect women because of nerve damage throughout the body caused by high blood sugar.

References

“Masturbation could lower diabetes risk,” Diabetes.co.uk (December 2013). http://www.diabetes.co.uk/news/2013/Dec/masturbation-could-lower-diabetes-risk-91791016.html (accessed on 8/3/2020).

Cooper, Spring Chenoa; Anthony Santella for The Conversation. “Masturbation IS good for you… preventing cancer and diabetes,” The Sun (December 22, 2016). https://www.thesun.co.uk/living/2453669/masturbation-is-good-for-you-preventing-cancer-and-diabetes-and-it-will-boost-your-relationship/ (accessed on 8/3/2020).

Cowley, Goretti; medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, MD, MPH. “Does diabetes cause erectile dysfunction?” Medical News Today (April 19, 2017). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317012.php (accessed on 8/3/2020).

Nall, Rachel, MSN, CRNA; medically reviewed by Janet Brito, PhD, LCSW, CST. “How does diabetes affect your sex life?” Medical News Today (April 5, 2019). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317194 (accessed on 10/13/2020)