Potency and dietary supplements: myths and reality

Potency and dietary supplements: myths and reality

Section 1: Understanding of potency and erectile dysfunction

Potency, in a broad sense, refers to male sexual strength and ability. In the clinical context, this term is most often associated with an erectile function – the ability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. This is a complex physiological process, including the nervous system, blood vessels, hormones and psychological state. Erectile dysfunction (ED), previously known as impotence, is defined as constant or repeated inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity.

• Physiological aspects of potency: An erection occurs when nerve impulses from the brain and sexual nerves stimulate the expansion of arteries in the penis. This leads to an increase in blood flow into the cavernous bodies (Corpora Cavernosa) – two cylindrical formations passing along the penis. As the cavernous bodies are filled with blood, they become tough, causing an erection. At the same time, the veins that drain blood from the penis are narrowing, holding the blood in the cavernous bodies and supporting the erection. This process is under the control of neurotransmitters, such as nitrogen oxide (No).

• Causes of erectile dysfunction: ED can be caused by a wide range of factors that can be divided into physiological and psychological.

  • Physiological reasons:

    • Cardiovascular diseases: Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and other cardiovascular diseases can limit blood flow to the penis, leading to ED.
    • Diabetes: A high blood sugar can damage the nerves and blood vessels, including those that participate in an erection.
    • High blood pressure (hypertension): Increased blood pressure can damage the walls of arteries, reducing blood flow to the floor dick. Some medicines for hypertension can also cause ED.
    • High cholesterol level: A high level of cholesterol can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries, limiting blood flow.
    • Obesity: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and other conditions that can cause ED.
    • Peyroni disease: This condition is characterized by the formation of a fibrous plaque in the penis, which can lead to painful erections and curvature of the penis.
    • Scattered sclerosis: This autoimmune disease can damage the nerves involved in the erection.
    • Parkinson’s disease: This neurodegenerative disease can affect the nervous signals that control the erection.
    • Hormonal disorders: The low level of testosterone (hypogonadism) can lead to a decrease in libido and ED. Problems with the thyroid gland can also affect the erectile function.
    • Renal failure: Chronic renal failure can lead to hormonal disorders and damage to the nerves, causing ED.
    • Damage to the penis, pelvis or spinal cord: Injuries of these areas can damage the nerves and blood vessels necessary for erection.
    • Operations on the prostate gland or bladder: Some operations may damage the nerves that control the erection.
    • Reception of some drugs: Some drugs, such as antidepressants, antihypertensive drugs, antihistamines and stomach ulcers can cause ED.
    • Alcohol abuse and drugs: Excessive use of alcohol and drugs can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to Ed.
    • Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the penis.

  • Psychological reasons:

    • Stress: Stress caused by work, relationships or financial problems can negatively affect the erectile function.
    • Depression: Depression is associated with low libido and ed.
    • Anxiety: Anxiety, especially the alarm of expectation of failure, can lead to ED.
    • Relationships problems: Conflicts in relationships, lack of proximity or communication problems can affect erectile function.
    • Low self-esteem: Low self -esteem and a feeling of self -doubt can lead to ED.
    • Guilt: Feeling guilt associated with sexual activity can cause Ed.
    • Injuries: The experienced sexual injuries can lead to ED.

• Diagnosis of erectile dysfunction: Diagnostics ED usually includes:

  • A history of anamnesis: The doctor will ask questions about your medical history, sexual history and medicines that you take.
  • Physical examination: The doctor will examine your penis and testicles.
  • Laboratory tests: Blood tests can be prescribed to check the level of testosterone, blood sugar, cholesterol and other indicators.
  • Special tests: In some cases, special tests may be required, such as night polysomnography of the penis (Rigiscan), an injection of vasoactive drugs in the penis or ultrasound examination of the penis with a doppler.
  • Psychological examination: If the doctor suspects that Ed has a psychological reason, he can direct you to a psychologist or sexologist.

Section 2: Overview of dietary supplements for potency: what is it and how they work?

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) for potency are products designed to improve sexual function in men. They usually contain a combination of vitamins, minerals, herbs and other natural ingredients. It is important to note that dietary supplements are not medicines and do not undergo strict quality and safety control, such as pharmaceuticals.

• Common ingredients in dietary supplements for potency:

  • L-arginine: Amino acid, which is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (No). No relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow to the floor dick.
  • Ginseng (Panax Ginseng): It is considered an adaptogen that can increase energy, reduce stress and improve sexual function.
  • Yohimbin (Pausinystalia Yohimbe): The alkaloid that blocks alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which can lead to expansion of blood vessels and improve erection. It should be used with caution, as it can cause side effects.
  • Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: A grassy plant, which is claimed, increases testosterone levels and improves sexual function. Scientific data are contradictory.
  • Maka Peruvian (Lepidium Meyenii): A plant from the cross -brown family, which is used to increase libido and fertility.
  • Muir Puama bark extract. A plant that is traditionally used in South America as an aphrodisiac.
  • Эпимедиум (Epimedium): The plant containing Ikariin, which is claimed, has the properties of an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase-5 (FDE-5), like Sildenafil (Viagra).
  • Zinc: The mineral that is necessary for the production of testosterone and the health of the prostate.
  • Selenium: A mineral that is an antioxidant and can improve fertility.
  • Vitamin E: Antioxidant that can improve blood circulation.
  • Niacin (Vitamin B3): Can improve blood circulation.

• The mechanisms of action declared by the manufacturers of dietary supplements:

  • Improving blood circulation: Many dietary supplements contain ingredients that are allegedly relaxed by blood vessels and improve blood flow to the penis.
  • Increase in testosterone levels: Some dietary supplements claim that they increase testosterone levels, which can improve libido and erectile function.
  • Reducing stress and anxiety: Some dietary supplements contain adaptogens, which are allegedly helped to reduce stress and anxiety, which can improve sexual function.
  • Antioxidant Protection: Some dietary supplements contain antioxidants that protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can improve the general state of health and sexual function.
  • Increase in the production of nitrogen oxide (No): L-argininin contained in some dietary supplements is the predecessor of NO, which plays an important role in erection.

• Bades release forms: Dietary supplements for potency are produced in various forms, including:

  • Tablets: The most common form of dietary supplement production.
  • Capsules: Similar to tablets, but usually contain powdered ingredients.
  • Liquids: Some dietary supplements are produced in liquid form for faster absorption.
  • Powders: Powers can be mixed with water or other drinks.
  • Jelly Bean: Some dietary supplements are produced in the form of chewing sweets to make them more attractive to consumers.

Section 3: Scientific data: What do research on dietary supplements and potency say?

A critical analysis of scientific data is the key to assessing the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements for potency. It is important to remember that many dietary supplements have restrictions, such as a small sample size, lack of a control group or financing by manufacturers.

• L-arginine: Some studies show that L-arginine can improve the erectile function in men with mild or moderate ED, especially in combination with other ingredients such as pycnogenol. However, larger and well -planned studies are needed to confirm these results. The effect can be less pronounced with more serious forms of ED.

• Ginseng (Panax Ginseng): The meta-analysis of several studies showed that red ginseng can improve the erectile function compared to placebo. However, the quality of the research was varied, and additional studies are needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment.

• Yohimbin (Pausinystalia Yohimbe): Yochimbin has some evidence of effectiveness in the treatment of ED, especially caused by psychological factors. However, yochimbin can cause side effects, such as anxiety, a rapid heartbeat and an increase in blood pressure. It should be used only under the supervision of a doctor.

• Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: Most studies have not shown a significant effect of tribulus on testosterone levels or an erectile function in men with a normal level of testosterone. Some studies have shown a slight improvement in sexual desire, but additional studies are needed.

• Maka Peruvian (Lepidium Meyenii): Some studies show that poppy can improve libido and sexual function, but not necessarily an erectile function. The mechanism of action of poppies is not completely understandable.

• Эпимедиум (Epimedium): Ikariin, contained in the epimedium, demonstrated the activity of the FDE-5 in vitro inhibitor (in laboratory). However, clinical studies in public are limited, and more studies are necessary to determine its effectiveness and safety for the treatment of ED.

• Other ingredients: For many other ingredients contained in dietary supplements for potency, scientific data are limited or absent. Often, manufacturers rely on traditional use or individual studies with a small sample size.

• Meta-analyzes and systematic reviews: It is important to pay attention to meta analyzes and systematic reviews that combine the results of several studies. They allow you to get a more reliable assessment of the effectiveness of dietary supplements.

• Dad restrictions:

  • Small sample size: Many dietary supplements have a small sample size, which complicates the generalization of the results for a wider population.
  • Lack of a control group: Some studies do not have a control group, which makes it difficult to determine whether the improvement of a sexual function is the result of a dietary supplement or other factors.
  • Placebo effect: A placebo effect can play a significant role in dietary supplements.
  • The bias of financing: Studies financed by dietary supplements can be biased in favor of the product.
  • Inhiority of products: The composition of dietary supplements can vary from party to party, which makes it difficult to reproduce research results.
  • Lack of standardization: The lack of standardization of ingredients and dosages makes it difficult to compare the results of various studies.

Section 4: risks and side effects of dietary supplements for potency

Since dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality and safety control, such as drugs, they can represent health risks.

• Unsuccessed ingredients: Some dietary supplements may contain unsolved ingredients, such as pharmaceuticals that are not indicated on the label. This can be dangerous, especially for people with certain diseases or taking other drugs. For example, some dietary supplements sold as “natural” means for potency were detected by sildenafil (Viagra) or other FDE-5 inhibitors, which can be dangerous for people with cardiovascular diseases taking nitrates.

• Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with other drugs that you take by increasing or decreasing their effectiveness or causing side effects. For example, yochimbin can interact with antidepressants and antihypertensive drugs.

• Side effects: Bades can cause side effects, such as headache, stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, anxiety, a rapid heartbeat and an increase in blood pressure.

• Quality problems: The quality of dietary supplements can vary from the manufacturer to the manufacturer. Some dietary supplements may contain pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticides or bacteria.

• Lack of evidence of effectiveness: Many dietary supplements for potency do not have sufficient scientific evidence of their effectiveness. In some cases, they can just be a placebo.

• Risk for people with chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney diseases should be especially careful when taking dietary supplements for potency. They should consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.

• Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions to the ingredients contained in dietary supplements.

• The risks associated with Yochimbin: Yochimbin can cause serious side effects, including anxiety, rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, headache, dizziness and hallucinations. It should only be used under the supervision of a doctor and avoid people with anxious disorders, cardiovascular diseases or kidney problems.

• Risks associated with L-Arginine: L-Arginine can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea and aggravation of herpes.

• The importance of consulting a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements for potency, it is important to consult a doctor. The doctor can help you determine whether the dietary supplement is safe for you, and whether he will interact with other medicines that you take.

Section 5: Bad regulation and information transparency

The regulation of dietary supplements is significantly different from the regulation of pharmaceuticals. In most countries, dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality control and safety before entering the market. This means that manufacturers are not required to prove the effectiveness or safety of their products before selling it.

• Lack of preliminary approval: In most countries, dietary supplements do not require preliminary approval by regulatory authorities, such as the Office for Sanitary Supervision of the quality of food and US medicines (FDA) or the European agency of drugs (EMA). This means that manufacturers can sell dietary supplements without providing evidence of their effectiveness or safety.

• Responsibility for safety: Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety of their products, but regulatory authorities usually intervene only after reports of side effects or quality problems come.

• Marking and advertising: Regulatory authorities establish the requirements for labeling and advertising of dietary supplements. Manufacturers should not make false or misleading statements about their products. However, monitoring compliance with these requirements may be difficult.

• Problems with fakes: The dietary supplement market is subject to fakes. Unscrupulous manufacturers can sell fake dietary supplements that do not contain the ingredients indicated on the label, or contain dangerous pollutants.

• Independent certification organizations: Some independent organizations offer dietary supplements certification services. These organizations check the products for compliance with certain quality and safety standards. The presence of a certificate from such an organization may be a sign of higher quality products. Examples of such organizations include NSF International, USP and Consumerlab.com.

• The importance of a critical approach to information: It is important to critically evaluate information about the dietary supplements that you receive from various sources, such as advertising, manufacturers’ websites and consumer reviews. Do not trust blindly statements by manufacturers and contact reliable sources of information such as scientific research, medical organizations and regulatory authorities.

• Awareness of regulation in your country: Check out the rules for regulating dietary supplements in your country. This will help you make more reasonable decisions on the purchase and use of dietary supplements.

• Report side effects: If you experience any side effects after taking Bad, inform your doctor and the regulatory authority in your country.

Section 6: Badam alternatives: drug treatment and other approaches

Instead of relying on dietary supplements for the treatment of ED, there are more effective and safe alternatives based on evidence -based medicine.

• Medication:

  • Phosfodiester inhibitors-5 (FDE-5): These are the most common drugs for the treatment of ED. They include Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardenafil (Levitra) and Avanafil (Stepdra). They work by blocking the FDE-5 enzyme, which leads to the relaxation of blood vessels and the improvement of blood flow to the penis. These drugs are effective in most men with ED, but they can cause side effects, such as headache, redness of the face, nasal congestion and stomach disorder. They are also contraindicated in people who take nitrates.
  • Alprostadil: This is a synthetic prostaglandin E1, which can be introduced directly into the penis (intracavernous injection) or inserted into the urethra (intra -ruble candle). Alprodil relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow to the floor dick. It can be effective in men who do not respond to FDE-5 inhibitors. Side effects may include pain in the penis, bleeding and the formation of fibrous tissue.
  • Testosterone: If ED is caused by a low level of testosterone, the doctor may prescribe replacement therapy with testosterone. Testosterone can be introduced in the form of injections, plasters, gels or tablets.

• Psychotherapy: If Ed is caused by psychological factors such as stress, anxiety or depression, psychotherapy can be useful. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT) and sex therapy can help men cope with these factors and improve their sexual function.

• Vacuum devices: Vacuum devices are cylinders that are worn on the penis and create a vacuum that attracts blood to the penis, causing an erection. An erection is supported using an elastic ring, which is put on the base of the penis.

• Surgical treatment: In rare cases, when other treatment methods are ineffective, surgical treatment can be recommended. This may include implantation of sexual prosthesis.

• Life change change:

  • Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can improve the general health and sexual function.
  • Regular physical exercises: Exercise can improve blood circulation, reduce stress and increase testosterone levels.
  • Refusal of smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the penis.
  • Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause Ed.
  • Reducing stress: Relaxation practices, such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce stress and improve sexual function.
  • Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can negatively affect testosterone levels and sexual function.

• Treatment of concomitant diseases: Treatment of diseases that can cause ED, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and high blood pressure, can improve erectile function.

Section 7: Potency and nutrition: The role of diet and nutrients

Food plays an important role in maintaining general health and sexual function. Certain products and nutrients can have a positive effect on potency.

• Products useful for potency:

  • Watermelon: Contains citrullin, which turns into arginine in the body. Arginine contributes to the production of nitrogen oxide that improves blood circulation.
  • Spinach: It is rich in magnesium, which contributes to the expansion of blood vessels.
  • Oysters: Contain zinc necessary for the production of testosterone.
  • Dark chocolate: Contains flavonoids that can improve blood circulation.
  • Nuts and seeds: We are rich in healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, which are useful for the cardiovascular system and sexual function.
  • Fat fish (salmon, tuna, sardines): Contains omega-3 fatty acids that improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
  • Red wine (in moderation): Contains resveratrol, which is an antioxidant and can improve blood circulation.
  • Garlic: Contains allicin, which can improve blood circulation.
  • Onion: Contains quercetin, which is an antioxidant and can improve blood circulation.
  • Avocado: Contains healthy fats, vitamins and minerals that are useful for the cardiovascular system and sexual function.

• Nutrients important for potency:

  • Zinc: It is necessary for the production of testosterone and the health of the prostate.
  • Selenium: Antioxidant that can improve fertility.
  • Vitamin D: The low level of vitamin D is associated with ED.
  • Vitamin E: Antioxidant that can improve blood circulation.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Can improve blood circulation.
  • L-arginine: Amino acid, which is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.
  • Flavonoids: Antioxidants that can improve blood circulation.

• Products that should be avoided:

  • Processed products: They contain a lot of sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, which can negatively affect the cardiovascular system and sexual function.
  • Sweet drinks: They contain a lot of sugar, which can lead to obesity and diabetes, increasing the risk of Ed.
  • Trans-fats: They are found in fried foods and processed foods. Increase the level of poor cholesterol and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Excessive drinking: Can call Ed.

• Principles of a healthy diet:

  • Variety: Use a variety of products from all groups of products.
  • Moderation: Do not overeat and control the size of portions.
  • Balance: Combine products from all groups of products in each meal.
  • Pay attention to the composition of the products: Read the labels and choose products with low sugar, salt and unhealthy fats.
  • Prepare at home: Cooking the house allows you to control the ingredients and the size of the portions.

• Consultation with a nutritionist: If you have questions about nutrition and potency, consult with a nutritionist.

Section 8: Psychological aspects of potency: stress, anxiety and relationships

Psychological factors play an important role in erectile function. Stress, anxiety, depression and problems in relationships can have a negative impact on potency.

• The effect of stress on potency: Stress can lead to ED, releasing stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can narrow the blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis. Stress can also distract attention from sexual activity and reduce libido.

• The influence of anxiety on potency: Anxiety, especially the alarm of expectation of failure, can lead to ED. When a man is alarming about his sexual ability, he may experience difficulties with achieving and maintaining an erection.

• The influence of depression on potency: Depression is associated with low libido and ed. Antidepressants can also call ED.

• The influence of problems in relations on potency: Conflicts in relationships, lack of proximity or communication problems can affect erectile function.

• Psychological factors management strategies:

  • Stress management: Relaxation practices, such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce stress.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT can help men change the negative thoughts and behavior associated with sexual activity.
  • Sexotherapy: Sex therapy can help men and their partners cope with sexual problems and improve their relationship.
  • Communication: Open and honest communication with a partner can help solve problems in relationships that can affect erectile function.
  • Consultation with a psychologist or sexologist: If you experience psychological problems that affect your erectile function, seek help from a psychologist or sexologist.

• The importance of supporting the partner: Partner support plays an important role in overcoming ED. A partner can help a man feel more confident and supported that he can improve his sexual function.

Section 9: Potency and age: normal changes and when to consult a doctor

With age in the male body, natural changes occur, which can affect the erectile function.

• Normal age -related changes:

  • Dressing the level of testosterone: The level of testosterone begins to decline after 30 years.
  • Decreased elasticity of blood vessels: With age, blood vessels become less elastic, which can limit blood flow to the floor dick.
  • Reducing the sensitivity of nerves: With age, the sensitivity of the nerves can decrease, which can complicate the achievement of an erection.
  • Increasing the time required to achieve an erection: With age, it may take more time to achieve an erection.
  • Reducing the hardness of an erection: With age, an erection can be less solid.
  • Increasing the time required to restore after ejaculation: With age, it may take more time to restore after ejaculation.

• When to consult a doctor:

  • Constant or repeated inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity.
  • Sudden loss of erectile function.
  • Painful erections.
  • The curvature of the penis during an erection.
  • Libido decrease.
  • Other sexual problems that bother you.

• The importance of regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations can help detect diseases that can cause ED, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and high blood pressure.

• Feel free to seek help: Ed is a common condition that can be treated. Feel free to seek help from a doctor.

Section 10: Potency and chronic diseases: influence and management strategies

Chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease, can have a negative effect on erectile function.

• Cardiovascular diseases: Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and other cardiovascular diseases can limit blood flow to the penis, leading to ED.

• Diabetes: A high blood sugar can damage the nerves and blood vessels, including those that participate in an erection.

• High blood pressure (hypertension): Increased blood pressure can damage the walls of arteries, reducing blood flow to the floor dick. Some medicines for hypertension can also cause ED.

• Kidney diseases: Chronic renal failure can lead to hormonal disorders and damage to the nerves, causing ED.

• ED management strategies for chronic diseases:

  • Control of a chronic disease: It is important to carefully control the chronic disease, following the doctor’s recommendations.
  • Life change change: Healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises, rejection of smoking and moderate alcohol consumption can help improve erectile function.
  • Medication: FDE-5 inhibitors can be effective for