How dietary supplement affects potency: scientific view
I. Understanding potency and erectile function
Potency, in a broad sense, covers the sexual capabilities of a man, including libido (sexual attraction), erectile function, the ability to ejaculation and fertility. Potency disorders manifested in a decrease in libido, weakening of an erection or other sexual dysfunctions can have a significant impact on the quality of life of a man and his partner. The erectile function, in particular, is a key component of potency and is determined by the ability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for full sexual intercourse.
An erection is a complex physiological process that includes the interaction of the nervous system, blood vessels, hormones and psychological factors. With sexual stimulation, nerve impulses stimulate the expansion of the arteries in the penis, which leads to a blood flow and filling the cavernous bodies. At the same time, a narrowing of the veins limiting the outflow of blood occurs, which contributes to the maintenance of an erection. Any disorders in this complex chain can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED).
Factors affecting potency and erectile function are numerous and diverse. These include:
- Age: With age, a natural decrease in testosterone levels, a deterioration in blood circulation and a weakening of nervous conduction occurs, which can negatively affect the erectile function.
- Vascular diseases: Atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries), hypertension (high blood pressure) and other vascular diseases disrupt blood flow to the floor member, preventing normal erection.
- Neurological diseases: Nerves damage caused by injuries, surgical interventions, diabetes or scattered sclerosis can disrupt the transmission of nerve impulses necessary for erection.
- Hormonal disorders: The low level of testosterone (hypogonadism), hyperprolactinemia (increased prolactin level) and thyroid disease can affect libido and erectile function.
- Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, guilt, problems in relationships and other psychological factors can cause or aggravate ED.
- Life: Smoking, alcohol abuse, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and improper nutrition negatively affect the general state of health and can lead to ED.
- Medicines: Some drugs, such as antidepressants, antihypertensive drugs, antihistamines and drugs for the treatment of prostate cancer, can cause ED as a side effect.
- Chronic diseases: Diabetes mellitus, renal failure, hepatic deficiency and other chronic diseases can contribute to the development of ED.
Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing the influence of dietary supplements on potency, since it is important to consider that ED is often the result of a complex interaction of several causes, and not just a deficiency of any one substance.
II. Dietary supplements and their role: General review
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances designed for direct intake with food or introduction into food products. They are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Bades are designed to maintain health, replenish the deficiency of nutrients and improve the functional state of the body.
Bades are classified according to various signs, including the composition, mechanism of action and purpose. The main categories of dietary supplements include:
- Vitamin-mineral complexes: Contain vitamins, minerals and trace elements necessary for the normal functioning of the body.
- Amino acids: Contain amino acids that are building proteins and participating in many metabolic processes.
- Plant extracts: Contain plant extracts with various biological properties.
- Probiotics and prebiotics: They contain living microorganisms that are useful for intestinal microflora, or substances that contribute to their growth.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Contain polyunsaturated fatty acids necessary for the health of the heart and blood vessels.
- Antioxidants: Contain substances that protect cells from damage by free radicals.
BAD market regulation is significantly different in different countries. In most countries, dietary supplements do not undergo such a strict test as drugs. Dietary supplies are not required to prove their effectiveness or safety as required for drugs. This means that the quality, composition and declared properties of dietary supplements can vary, and consumers should be careful when choosing them.
The effect of dietary supplements on the body can be diverse and depends on the composition, dosage and individual characteristics of a person. Some dietary supplements can have a positive effect on health, for example, to make up for nutrient deficiency or improve some body functions. However, other dietary supplements can be ineffective or even harmful, especially with improper use or in combination with other drugs.
It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a replacement for good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. They can be useful as an addition to a healthy diet, but should not be considered as a panacea from all diseases. Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor in order to verify his safety and expediency.
III. Dietary supplements declared to improve potency: review and scientific data
There are many dietary supplements on the market, which are positioned as means for improving potency and erectile function. These dietary supplements usually contain various plant extracts, amino acids, vitamins and minerals, which are claimed to have properties that help increase libido, improve erection or increase sexual endurance. It is important to critically evaluate scientific evidence confirming the effectiveness of these dietary supplements.
Below is a review of some of the most common dietary supplements declared to improve potency, and analysis of existing scientific data:
-
L-arginine: Amino acid, which is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (NO), a substance that plays an important role in expanding blood vessels and improving blood flow to the penis. Some studies show that L-arginine can improve the erectile function in men with mild or moderate ED, especially in combination with other drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra). However, other studies have not revealed a significant effect. Additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of L-Arginine in ED.
-
Ginseng: A plant that is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to increase energy, improve cognitive functions and treat sexual dysfunctions. Some studies show that ginseng can improve erectile function and increase libido. It is assumed that ginseng affects No-syntase, contributing to the production of NO, and has antioxidant properties. However, the quality of ginseng’s research often leaves much to be desired, and more large -scale and well -planned studies are needed.
-
Tribulus Terrestris (Tribulus Teretstris): A plant that is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Some manufacturers say that Tribulus Terrestris increases testosterone levels and improves sexual function. However, scientific data confirming these statements are limited and contradictory. Some studies have not revealed a significant effect of Tribulus Terrestris on testosterone levels or erectile function, while others showed a slight improvement in sexual desire and satisfaction.
-
Maka Peruvian (Lepidium Meyenii): A plant that grows in the Andes, which is traditionally used to increase energy, improve the fertility and treatment of sexual dysfunctions. Some studies show that Peruvian poppy can improve sexual desire and function, especially in men with a slight ED. It is assumed that Mac is influenced by neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which play a role in sexual function. Additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of poppies and study its mechanisms of action.
-
Yohimbine: African wood bark Yohimbe, which is alpha-2 adrenergic shower. Yochimbin can block alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which leads to the expansion of blood vessels and an increase in blood flow to the penis. Some studies show that yochimbin can improve the erectile function, especially in men with psychogenic ED (ED caused by psychological factors). However, Yohimbine can cause side effects, such as anxiety, insomnia, a rapid heartbeat and an increase in blood pressure, and it should be used with caution under the supervision of a doctor.
-
Zinc: The mineral necessary for the normal operation of the reproductive system and the production of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and sexual dysfunction. In such cases, zinc intake can help improve potency. However, taking zinc men with a normal level of zinc, as a rule, does not have a significant effect on potency.
-
Selenium: A trace element that is an antioxidant and plays an important role in reproductive function. Selena deficiency can negatively affect spermatogenesis and potency. Some studies show that selenium intake can improve sperm quality and increase libido.
-
Vitamin D: Vitamin, which plays an important role in the regulation of testosterone levels. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and sexual dysfunction. In such cases, the intake of vitamin D can help improve potency.
-
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. Vitamin E can improve blood circulation and protect the cells of the penis from damage, thereby contributing to the improvement of erectile function.
-
L-Citrullin: Amino acid, which turns into L-arginine in the body. Since L-Arginine is the predecessor of NO, L-Citrullin can also help improve erectile function. Some studies show that L-Citrullin can be effective in the treatment of mild ED.
It is important to note that many dietary supplements declared to improve potency do not have sufficient scientific evidence confirming their effectiveness. Many studies are small, have methodological disadvantages or do not compare dietary supplements with a placebo. In addition, the composition and dosage of dietary supplements can vary significantly, which complicates the assessment of their effectiveness.
IV. Risks and side effects of dietary supplements for potency
Despite the fact that dietary supplements are often perceived as natural and safe, they can cause side effects and represent certain health risks. It is important to realize these risks, especially when taking dietary supplements to improve potency.
-
The inconsistency of the composition and the declared properties: The composition of dietary supplements may not correspond to the label indicated. Some dietary supplements may contain ingredients that are not indicated, or contain them in quantities other than the declared. This can be especially dangerous if the dietary supplement contains medicinal substances, such as FDE-5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil), which are used to treat ED. The unauthorized addition of drugs to dietary supplements is a serious problem, since consumers may not know about taking these substances and are at risk of side effects and drug interactions.
-
Side effects: Bad can cause side effects, especially with high doses or when interacting with other drugs. Side effects can vary from the lungs (for example, stomach disorder, headache) to serious (for example, an increase in blood pressure, arrhythmia, liver damage). Some dietary supplements, such as yochimbin, are associated with an increased risk of anxiety, insomnia and cardiovascular problems.
-
Medicinal interactions: Bad can interact with medicines that you take by enhancing or weakening their effect. This can lead to unpredictable health consequences. For example, some dietary supplements can interact with anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood), increasing the risk of bleeding.
-
Allergic reactions: Bad can cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to certain ingredients. Allergic reactions can appear in the form of a skin rash, itching, edema, difficulty breathing or anaphylactic shock.
-
Lack of quality control: Unlike medicines, dietary supplements do not go through such a strict quality test. This means that the quality, safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary. Some dietary supplements can be polluted by harmful substances such as heavy metals, pesticides or bacteria.
-
Masking the underlying diseases: Reception of dietary supplements to improve potency can mask the main diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes or hormonal disorders that can cause ED. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of these diseases can lead to serious health consequences.
-
Inefficiency: Many dietary supplements declared to improve potency do not have sufficient scientific evidence confirming their effectiveness. Reception of such dietary supplements can be a waste of money and time, and can also distract from more effective methods of treatment of ED.
V. The approach to choosing and receiving dietary supplements for potency: Recommendations
Given the potential risks and uncertainty of dietary supplements for potency, it is important to approach their choice and intake with caution.
-
Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements, to improve potency, it is necessary to consult a doctor. The doctor can evaluate your general health, identify the possible causes of ED and eliminate contraindications for admission of dietary supplements. The doctor can also recommend other, more effective methods of treatment of ED, such as medicines, psychotherapy or a change in lifestyle.
-
Assessment of scientific data: Critically evaluate the scientific data confirming the effectiveness of dietary supplements. Look for information from reliable sources such as scientific journals, medical websites and healthcare organizations. Be careful with marketing statements and advertising promises that are not backed up by scientific evidence.
-
The choice of reliable manufacturers: Choose a dietary supplement from famous and respected manufacturers who adhere to high quality and safety standards. Make sure that the manufacturer has a good reputation and provides complete information about the composition and production of dietary supplements.
-
Careful reading of the label: Carefully read the dietary supplement label to make sure that the composition corresponds to the declared and learn about possible side effects and drug interactions. Pay attention to the warnings and warnings indicated on the label.
-
Start with a low dose: Start taking a low dose dietary supplement and gradually increase it, if necessary. This will help you evaluate your tolerance of dietary supplements and reduce the risk of side effects.
-
Side effects monitoring: Carefully follow your well -being while taking dietary supplements and inform the doctor about any side effects. If you experience any serious side effects, immediately stop taking dietary supplements and seek medical help.
-
Informing the doctor about all the drugs taken: Tell the doctor about all medicines, dietary supplements and herbs that you take to avoid medicinal interactions.
-
Awareness of restrictions: Remember that dietary supplements are not a replacement for good nutrition, a healthy lifestyle and medical treatment. Bad can be useful as an addition to other methods of treatment of ED, but should not be considered the only solution to the problem.
-
Skeptical attitude to “miraculous” means: Be skeptical in relation to dietary supplements that promise a quick and easy solution to problems with potency. Ed is often the result of a complex interaction of several factors, and its treatment requires an integrated approach.
VI. Badam alternatives: scientifically sound approaches to improving potency
Instead of relying exclusively on a dietary supplement to improve potency, consider other, scientifically sound approaches to the treatment of ED and improve sexual health.
-
Life change change:
- Healthy nutrition: Proper nutrition, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and low-fat protein, can improve the general state of health and reduce the risk of developing ED factors such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
- Physical activity: Regular physical exercises can improve blood circulation, reduce stress and increase testosterone levels, which can help improve erectile function.
- Weight loss: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of Ed. Weight loss can improve erectile function and general health.
- Refusal of smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and worsens blood circulation, which can lead to ED. Refusal of smoking can improve erectile function and general health.
- Moderate alcohol consumption: Alcohol abuse can cause Ed. Moderate drinking of alcohol (no more than one or two drinks per day) may not have a negative effect on erectile function.
- Stress management: Stress, anxiety and depression can cause or aggravate Ed. Various stress management methods, such as yoga, meditation, massage and psychotherapy, can help reduce stress and improve sexual function.
-
Medicines:
- FDE-5 inhibitors: Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Wardenaphil (Levitra) and Avanafil (Stepdra) are inhibitors of type 5 phosphodesterase inhibitors (FDE-5), which increase blood flow to the penis and improve the erectile function. These drugs are effective and safe for most men, but can cause side effects, such as headache, redness of the face and nasal congestion.
- Alprostadil: Alprostadil is a synthetic prostaglandin E1, which is introduced directly into the penis or urethra to stimulate an erection. Alprostadil is an effective treatment for ED, but can cause side effects, such as pain in the penis and fibrosis.
- Testosterone-off-room therapy (TZT): If ED is caused by a low level of testosterone, TZT can help improve erectile function and libido. TZT can be administered in the form of injections, plasters, gels or tablets.
-
Psychotherapy:
- Sexy therapy: Sexual therapy can help men with ED caused by psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, depression or problems in relationships. A sexual therapist can help men cope with these problems and improve their sexual function.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT can help men change the negative thoughts and behavior that contribute to ED. KPT can be effective for the treatment of ED caused by anxiety, stress or other psychological factors.
-
Vacuum erectors:
- A vacuum erector is a device that creates a vacuum around the penis to attract blood to it and stimulate an erection. Vacuum erectors are effective for the treatment of ED, but can be inconvenient to use.
-
Surgical treatment:
- Implantation of the penis prosthesis: Implantation of a penis prosthesis is a surgical procedure in which inflatable or semi -rigid prostheses are introduced into the penis. Implantation of a penis prosthesis is an effective treatment for ED, but is an invasive procedure and is associated with the risk of complications.
- Vascular surgery: In some cases, ED can be caused by blocking the arteries that feed the penis. Vascular surgery can be performed to restore blood flow to the floor dick.
VII. Future areas of dietary supplement research and potency
Despite the fact that many dietary supplements are declared to improve potency, additional studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety. Future research should be aimed at:
-
Conducting randomized controlled studies (RCTs): RCTs are the “gold standard” of clinical research and allow us to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements compared to placebo or other treatment methods.
-
Using standardized extracts: To ensure the reproduction of research results, it is necessary to use standardized plant extracts that contain the known amounts of active ingredients.
-
Study of action mechanisms: It is necessary to study the mechanisms of the action of dietary supplements in order to understand how they affect the erectile function and sexual function.
-
Determination of optimal doses and reception modes: It is necessary to determine the optimal doses and modes of dietary supplement to achieve maximum efficiency and minimize the risk of side effects.
-
Study of long -term security: It is necessary to study the long -term safety of dietary supplements in order to identify possible side effects, which can manifest only after prolonged administration.
-
Study of drug interactions: It is necessary to study the interactions of dietary supplements with drugs in order to avoid potentially dangerous medicinal interactions.
-
Conducting research on various groups of the population: It is necessary to conduct research on various population groups in order to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements in men of different ages, with different health states and taking different medicines.
-
Development of more accurate diagnostic methods: It is necessary to develop more accurate methods of diagnosis of ED in order to better understand the causes of ED and select the most effective treatment.
-
Using innovative technologies: It is necessary to use innovative technologies, such as genomics and proteomics, to study the effect of dietary supplements at the molecular level.
-
Conducting meta -analyzes: It is necessary to conduct meta -analyzes of existing studies in order to combine data from several studies and get more accurate assessments of the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements.
Conducting these studies will help improve our understanding of the influence of dietary supplements on potency and develop more effective and safe treatment methods for ED.