While it is believed that vitamin supplements may enhance erectile function, there is insufficient scientific evidence to support this claim. Although prescription medications or medical procedures are commonly effective in treating ED, it is still beneficial for overall health to ensure sufficient vitamin intake through a balanced diet or dietary supplements.
Before taking vitamins and other supplements, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. Taking excessive doses of vitamins may need to be approached cautiously if you are on certain medications. It is essential to note that an excess of anything, including beneficial substances like vitamins, can potentially lead to health issues.
What Vitamins Are Good for Erectile Dysfunction?
DHEA: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
DHEA, a hormone, is naturally produced in the adrenal glands and serves as a natural enhancer for hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. Certain men experiencing ED have been found to possess decreased levels of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone).
Citrulline and L-arginine
Citrulline is considered as one of the vitamins available for treating erectile dysfunction. It is an amino acid that has the potential to induce relaxation in blood vessels, much like the mechanism of action observed in Viagra. Citrulline acts as a precursor to arginine, an additional amino acid responsible for widening blood vessels. Utilizing watermelon as a natural alternative, you can obtain citrulline and potentially use it as an herbal remedy for erectile dysfunction.
Another option to consider is Cialis, a prescription drug approved by the FDA that contains tadalafil as its active ingredient. This medication belongs to a group of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors, which work by blocking the enzyme phosphodiesterase 5. By relaxing the blood vessels that supply the penis, Cialis helps increase the blood flow to this area, addressing erectile dysfunction. Moreover, Cialis also helps alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by relaxing the bladder muscles, facilitating urination.
Cialis cannot be obtained without a doctor’s prescription and is not available for sale over the counter.
Vitamin D and Vitamin E
Researchers have suggested that Vitamin D has a potential impact on sexual function, in addition to its primary importance in bone health and endocrine diseases like diabetes.
The researchers wrote that recent clinical studies have indicated a possible connection between low levels of vitamin D and the occurrence of sexual disturbances, particularly erectile dysfunction. However, there is not unanimous agreement on this point among all the studies. The researchers acknowledged that these findings require confirmation, but they also emphasized the potential revolutionary implications for the treatment of sexual dysfunction.
The text was reviewed by medical researchers who discovered a significant association between higher levels of 25(OH) vitamin D and high values of total testosterone as well as all of the parameters in the IIEF questionnaire. Additionally, increased levels of erectile function and IIEF scores were found to be significantly and positively associated with higher testosterone levels.
Total and free testosterone levels increased and erectile function improved in the subset of participants who were given vitamin D supplementation. Additionally, the intake of Vitamin E aids in enhancing erections through promoting blood flow and oxygen supply to the penis.
The relationship between Vitamin D and Magnesium should be noted. Under normal circumstances, Magnesium assists in relaxing blood arteries. When magnesium levels are low, blood vessels can constrict and blood pressure can increase. Furthermore, insufficient levels of magnesium may impede the penile vein from completely relaxing, leading to erectile dysfunction.
Before using Vitamin D and magnesium, it is advisable to seek professional medical advice from your attending urology physician.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
A recent study discovered that vitamin B3, which is frequently utilized for vascular conditions, enhances erectile function in men with high cholesterol when taken as a daily dose.
According to the findings, the 80 males who participated in the study with moderate or severe erectile dysfunction (ED) and were given niacin experienced an enhancement in their ability to sustain an erection. Conversely, the 80 males who received a placebo pill and initially had only mild ED did not observe any alteration in their symptoms.
Excessive niacin intake can lead to complications such as ulcers, gout, arrhythmias, and an elevated risk of experiencing a stroke.
Foods such as turkey, avocado, and peanuts naturally contain niacin.
Folic acid (Vitamin B9)
Folic Acid’s association with nitric oxide production and erectile response is established. Folic acid is present in various sources, including herbal remedies such as oranges, leafy green vegetables, bread, grains, cereals, pasta, rice, and beans.
Zinc
Zinc has the ability to regulate testosterone levels in certain men, potentially assisting with symptoms of ED.
Health Benefits of Supplements that Boost Testosterone
Research suggests that individuals with low testosterone levels or vitamin deficiencies may experience improved energy levels, muscle mass, strength, weight management, sexual function, and bone density by incorporating a testosterone boosting supplement into their exercise and healthy diet routine. However, due to limited direct research on testosterone boosting supplements, it is crucial to consult your personal physician before incorporating any new vitamins or supplements into your regimen.
Potential Side Effects of Testosterone Boosters
The following side effects may occur as a result of consuming testosterone boosters that contain nutrients such as zinc or ashwagandha:
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
In addition, several supplements that claim to enhance testosterone levels consist of vitamins, minerals, and herbs that can potentially interact with specific medications. Ashwagandha, for instance, may have interactions with medications used for high blood pressure, diabetes, and seizures, along with sedatives and thyroid medications.
Before considering adding a testosterone booster to your routine, it is advised to consult with your doctor initially in order to identify the most suitable supplement for your individual requirements.
Are Testosterone Boosters or Supplements Safe?
Due to the differing standards of regulation between supplements and medications, it can be challenging to determine the safety and efficacy of supplements. To guarantee the absence of harmful elements, seek out products that have undergone third-party testing for impurities. Prior to incorporating a new supplement into your regimen, consult with your doctor to identify any nutrient deficiencies and establish a suitable dosage.
When to Consider When Looking for Testosterone Boosters
If you are showing signs of low testosterone, such as lack of energy, reduced sex drive, feelings of sadness, and loss of muscle mass, it might be worth considering using a supplement to naturally raise your testosterone levels. Nevertheless, the only definitive way to confirm your testosterone levels is by taking a saliva or blood test, which can be done either at home or with the assistance of your healthcare professional. Consult your doctor to discuss the possibility of taking a testosterone booster supplement and to establish the correct dosage for your specific requirements.
How to Choose the Best Testosterone-Boosting Supplement for You
Factors such as ingredients, dosage, cost, side effects, and personal preference will ultimately determine the most suitable testosterone-boosting supplement for you. It is also advisable to look for a supplement that undergoes third-party testing, guaranteeing the presence of the listed ingredients on the label. To determine which testosterone booster supplement is best for you, consulting with your doctor is recommended.
When to See a Doctor About Testosterone Levels
To ascertain if your testosterone levels are low, you must undergo testing administered by your doctor. Initiate the process by having a conversation with your primary care physician, who might then direct you to a urologist. The doctor highlights that individuals frequently presume they have low testosterone when they actually do not. In many instances, they can enhance their levels naturally by implementing minor adjustments to their diet and exercise routine.
There are several lifestyle factors that affect testosterone levels.
- Sleep. “If you sleep five hours a day or less, your testosterone levels can go down by up to 15%,” says Dr. Desai. Create a sleep routine and prioritize getting enough rest each night.
- Diet. A healthy eating plan that’s light on sugar, caffeine and processed foods will give you the best shot at keeping your hormones in balance. Also, maintaining a healthy weight helps keep testosterone levels up. The more body fat you have, the more likely you are to have lower testosterone.
- Exercise. A combination of resistance and cardio training will increase the production of testosterone. (Although it’s worth noting that a high amount of endurance training or sports with calorie restriction can decrease testosterone levels.) Higher amounts of muscle mass contributes to higher levels of testosterone.
- Alcohol and tobacco. Both drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes can reduce testosterone.
- Stress. Excessive amounts of stress can lead the body to convert testosterone to estrogen.
If you would like to experiment with a vitamin, mineral, or supplement to assess its effects on your testosterone levels, have a conversation with your doctor regarding the potential side effects and its safety for you.