People often shy away from discussing such vital topics. But it will be surprising for many of you to know that research has shown that every third man has experienced problems related to a firm erection. The problem gets even more significant as age grows. One in every ten males aging between 20-40 face this issue.
There are several reasons why the erectile problem occurs, and it is essential to figure them out with time. It can be due to diabetes, heart diseases, low lifestyle, and deficiencies of vitamins as well. Minerals and vitamins support the body to function correctly, including your reproductive system.
Key facts
- Some vitamin deficiencies may source erectile dysfunction (ED), and treating these deficiencies may ease the symptoms.
- One of the most ignored aspects of sexual health is erectile strength.
- For boosting the blood flow through the increase in nitric oxide production, one can start consuming antioxidants like vitamin C. It further improves erections.
- PDE5 inhibitors is a medication that is usually considered as a first-line treatment for ED.
Analyzing Erectile Dysfunction Among Males
Do you know of the fact that around 30 million males in the United States have the problem of Erectile Dysfunction? Yes, it is true, and one out of two men are above the age of 75 faces this. Furthermore, men with ED face problems related to their self-esteem, depression, performance, and anxiety.
ED can be a morbid topic for many, but it is essential to discuss it to get a solution. It is just not about sexual health, but it is also about a person’s overall life. Basically, ED is a condition where the person faces trouble getting a firm erection, keeping it long enough to complete sexual intercourse. Although it is not a chronic disease, it can be complicated. Several factors lead to such conditions starting from low lifestyle to health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and more.
Vitamins That Can Support Erectile Strength
Vitamin deficiencies are more common than most people believe, and it can further lead to low erectile strength. But if these deficiencies are tackled with time, it can help out this problem. Here are some of the essential vitamins that increase erectile strength.
Vitamin D:
According to one study by researchers, it was discovered that individuals with low Vitamin D levels are more likely to have erectile problems. The meta-analysis study of 2020 found a direct relationship between Vitamin D and severe Erectile dysfunction. In comparison, healthy men with sufficient Vitamin D obtained more orgasm function, sexual desire, and erectile function.
Furthermore, to overcome this problem, Vitamin D is also used to cure erectile dysfunction. A blood test can be done to learn about Vitamin D levels in the body. Again, these are some of the direct sources of Vitamin D:
- Fortified Milk
- Oily Fish, Such as Salmon Or Sardines
- Sunlight
- Egg Yolk
- Portobello Mushrooms
- Fortified Cereal
Vitamin B3
Also known as ‘Niacin,’ Vitamin B3 is also one of the vitamins that, according to the researches, have shown the efficiency of boosting erectile function. It helps to decrease high blood pressure, high cholesterol problems, and ail hardening of the arteries. These are some of the know reasons behind impotence. If, in any case, these medical conditions are culprits of ED, then they can be treated with Vitamin B3. Some of the natural sources of Niacin are:
- Liver
- Tuna
- Chicken breast
- Turkey
- Green peas
- Avocado
- Mushrooms
Folic acid/Vitamin B9:
Vitamin B9 is related to nitric oxide production in the body, which plays a vital role in relaxing blood vessels and enhancing blood flow as well. These two aspects are super crucial when it comes to getting a firm erection. Since heart problems are one of the main reasons behind sexual dysfunction, Vitamin B9 can help. If the blood flow is better, it will automatically enhance the ability to get an erection.
Some of the studies also indicate that consuming folic acid for three months improved ED problems. Here are some sources of Folic Acid:
- Green, leafy vegetables like spinach and kale
- Avocados
- Asparagus
- Eggs
- Legumes, such as beans, peas, and lentils
- Beets
- Bananas
- Broccoli
- Cereals, rice, and pasta
Vitamin C
Nitric Oxide is one of the most significant components for getting an erection. Although Vitamin C does not directly provide you with nitric acid, it can through biochemical pathways required for nitric acid’s release. No evidence supports the effectiveness of Vitamin C for ED, but many reports show the benefits on the other hand as well. We all know Vitamin C is crucial for repairing, growing body tissues, and boosting immunity.
- Spinach and leafy greens
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Cantaloupe
- Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit
- Cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, sprouts
- Watermelon
- Cabbage
Over-The-Counter Treatments For ED
Many natural treatment is there to treat erection problems, but more research is required to prove their effectiveness. One of the herbal supplements named ‘horny goat weed’ is available out there in the market for this problem. It inhibits PDE5 like most of the ED drugs. Furthermore, Yohimbe has significantly shown the effectiveness in improving mild ED.
One meta-analysis has significantly shown the helping properties in Korean ginseng for ED. It is basically an Asian perennial plant that is highly regarded as a tonic for better sexual health. L-citrulline, an amino acid present in this, effectively improves the blood flow towards a man’s genitals, which further helps treat mild ED.
But U.S Food and Drug Administration needs a proper prescription for both the generic ED drugs as it comes with some severe side-effects. Therefore, it is crucial to take medical advice before consuming any of these OTC medications.