The failure to get or sustain an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse is erectile dysfunction (ED). Sometimes it is referred to as impotence, but this word is hardly used nowadays. Find out more about the right vitamins for erectile dysfunction.
Occasional EDs are not rare. During periods of tension, many men feel it. Frequent ED, however, may be a symptom of treatment-needing health issues. It may also be a sign of emotional or relationship problems that a therapist needs to resolve.
In this article, we will look for vitamins for erectile dysfunction. Vitamins and minerals enable the body, including the reproductive system in order to function properly. Vitamins boost general health. There is no firm evidence; however, that particular vitamins can cure ED. Nevertheless, a few studies support a link between particular vitamin deficiencies and erectile dysfunction, and it would help people with low levels of these vitamins get more of them. The section below discusses what study says about the relation between certain vitamins and erectile dysfunction.
Which Are The Vitamins For Erectile Dysfunction?
Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
Studies focused on heart disease have shown that daily folic acid supplementation can minimize the arteries’ hardening and promote improved circulation. Since cardiovascular diseases can be a significant risk factor for sexual dysfunction, some experts claim it could also significantly improve erectile function by improving heart function with vitamin B9. Simply put, for achieving and sustaining an erection, healthy blood flow and circulation to the penis are crucial. Hence Vitamin B9 is a good vitamin for erectile dysfunction.
A daily dose of folic acid can also function as a mood stabilizer and improve erectile dysfunctions caused by stress and premature ejaculation during sex. However, to fully understand its effectiveness, further study is required.
Folic acid takes two forms: a synthetic version added to food products by manufacturers and folate, which is found naturally and easier to digest by most individuals. The following food are rich in folate vitamin for erectile dysfunction
- Greens, leafy vegetables: examples are spinach, kale, brussels sprouts, and broccoli
- Avocado
- Broccoli and asparagus
- Eggs
- Beets
- Citrus fruits and bananas
- Beans, peas, lentils, and other legumes
- Cereals, rice, pasta
- Broccoli
- Papaya
Vitamin D
A 2020 nutrient meta-analysis found a direct relationship between vitamin D deficiency and severe erectile dysfunction. Another study involving young men with low vitamin D levels found that erectile function was much worse among those with vitamin D deficiency. It implies a correlation between a deficiency of vitamin D and erectile dysfunction.
Scientists are not certain if what is the link between this vitamin and ED exactly. Vitamin D may decrease inflammation, increase blood flow, or promote nitric oxide production, an integral part of the erectile response.
The main source of vitamin D is sunlight. Other good sources of vitamin D are:
- Oily, fatty fish: examples are salmon, sardines, mackerel, oysters, shrimp
- Portobello mushrooms
- Vitamin D-fortified milk
- Fortified cereal
- Egg yolk
- Liver
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Vitamin B3, commonly known as niacin, is among the few vitamins with potential efficiency in improving erectile function, backed up with promising studies. Vitamin B3 is believed to play a major role in erectile dysfunction. A 2014 study found that many patients with erectile dysfunction were also deficient in folic acid.
Niacin is known to help treat high blood pressure and is also used to reduce high cholesterol and treat arterial hardening, both known causes of erectile dysfunction. Niacin can boost circulation to your penis so that you can achieve an erection, especially if these health issues are the underlying cause of your ED. Niacin could be a good vitamin for erectile dysfunction that you can incorporate in your lifestyle. The following foods are rich in Vitamin B3:
- Meat: examples are turkey, chicken, pork, and beef
- Avocado
- Peanuts
- Mushrooms
- Brown rice
- Avocados
- Liver
- Green peas
Vitamin C
A 2017 study indicates that vitamin C helps boost blood flow, increases production, and improves testosterone, both essential for sexual function. However, supplements with vitamin C can be used as a vitamin for erectile dysfunction. Your body, nevertheless, needs to release nitric oxide to get an erection. Vitamin C does not directly release nitric oxide, but it does assist the biochemical pathways required to release it.
Vitamin C is not only a potential vitamin for erectile dysfunction, but it is also excellent for general health. Several other known advantages of having enough vitamin C have been reported. The growth, repair, and development of all body tissues are essential. It can, at the very least, help improve the immune system.
Foods rich in Vitamin C are:
- Green, leafy vegetables: examples are broccoli, brussels sprouts, spinach, cabbage, and cauliflower
- Sweet potatoes
- Cantaloupe
- Thyme and parsley
- Guava and citrus fruits
- Red and green peppers
- Tomatoes
L-arginine
Blood vessels are dilated by nitric oxide, promoting blood flow and circulation. L-arginine is an amino acid that exists naturally, helping to increase nitric oxide levels. Increasing nitric oxide by increasing L-arginine with supplements likely leads to improved blood flow and stronger erections.
Although there is strong evidence to support L-arginine’s efficacy, it is restricted to men who have low nitric oxide levels in their system. Taking L-arginine as a vitamin for erectile dysfunction may not affect if the individual has healthy nitric oxide levels.
Foods that are high in L-arginine include:
- Pumpkin or squash seeds
- Watermelon
- Nuts and seeds
- Meat, including turkey, chicken, pork, and beef
- Legumes
- Seaweed
Be Cautious And Talk To Your Doctor
The most popular vitamin and mineral supplements consumed by individuals, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and multivitamins, does not cause harm. However, their full benefits are yet to be completely confirmed. Folic acid, which can decrease cardiovascular disease and stroke, and niacin and antioxidants are the possible exceptions, all of which indicated possible rises in all-cause mortality. The researchers said that a balanced diet could include adequate vitamins and minerals without the need for supplements.
Before trying an alternative treatment and or vitamins for erectile dysfunction, speak to your doctor, particularly if you are taking medication or have a chronic health condition such as heart disease or diabetes.
Be Wary Of What You Take
It is important to keep in mind that herbal supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and some may not be safe. During a 2004 investigation, the FDA found that several products sold as “natural” erectile dysfunction remedies by companies contained unidentified or illegal drugs. Check the vitamins for erectile dysfunction before taking it.
