Natural dietary supplements for potency: myth or reality?

Natural dietary supplements for potency: myth or reality?

I. Understanding potency and its problems:

Potency, in a broad sense, determines the male sexual function, including libido (sexual attraction), the ability to erect, maintaining an erection during intercourse and the ability to ejaculation. Problems with potency, often called erectile dysfunction (ED), are characterized by constant or repeated inability to achieve or support an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse.

• Physiological aspects: A normal erection is a complex process that includes a nervous system, blood vessels and hormones. Stimulation (mental or physical) launches a cascade of events leading to the expansion of arteries in the penis, an increase in blood flow and filling the caves (Corpus Cavernosa), causing an erection. Nervous impulses, hormones (in particular, testosterone) and healthy endothelial function (the function of the inner layer of blood vessels) play a key role.
• Causes of Ed: Erectile dysfunction can be caused by various factors, both physical and psychological.
  • Physical reasons:
    • Cardiovascular diseases: Atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries), high blood pressure, high cholesterol – all this can reduce blood flow to the penis.
    • Diabetes: Damages nerves and blood vessels, affecting the erectile function.
    • Obesity: It is associated with a low level of testosterone and cardiovascular problems.
    • Hormonal disorders: The low level of testosterone (hypogonadism) can reduce libido and erectile function.
    • Neurological disorders: Distant sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, a stroke can damage the nerves that control the erection.
    • Damage to the penis or pelvis: Injuries, surgical interventions (for example, prostate removal) can affect nerves and blood vessels.
    • Reception of some drugs: Antidepressants, antihypertensive drugs, antihistamines can cause ED as a side effect.
  • Psychological reasons:
    • Stress: A high level of stress, anxiety can affect libido and erectile function.
    • Depression: Reduces sexual desire and can disrupt the erectile function.
    • Relationships problems: Conflicts, lack of proximity can lead to ED.
    • Anxiety about sexual failure: Fear of failure can aggravate the problem.
    • Low self-esteem: Uncertainty can negatively affect the sexual function.
• Prevalence: Erectile dysfunction is a fairly common problem, especially among men over 40 years old. Expection increases with age. It is important to understand that Ed is not an inevitable consequence of aging, and in many cases it can be treated.

II. What are dietary supplements (biologically active additives):

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are products designed to supplement the diet. They can contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids and other substances. Bades are produced in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, liquids and bars.

• Bad regulation: Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not subjected to such strict regulation. In most countries, including Russia, dietary supplements are registered, not licensed. This means that manufacturers are not required to prove the efficiency and safety of their products before entering the market. Responsibility for safety and compliance with the declared composition mainly lies with the manufacturer. This creates the potential for unfair practice, including falsification, overstated promises and the lack of proven effectiveness.
• General rules for using dietary supplements:
  • Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements, it is recommended to consult a doctor, especially if you have any chronic diseases, you take other medicines or plan an operation.
  • The choice of reliable manufacturers: Give preference to dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers who comply with quality standards and have a good reputation.
  • A careful study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that you do not have allergies or intolerance to any ingredients.
  • Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the recommended dosage indicated on the packaging. Do not exceed it to avoid side effects.
  • Information of the doctor: Be sure to inform your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept to avoid unwanted drug interactions.
• The role of dietary supplements in maintaining health: Bad can play a role in maintaining health, especially in cases of deficiency of certain nutrients. However, they should not be considered as a replacement for good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. It is important to remember that a balanced diet, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and stress management are the basis of health and well -being.

III. Natural components of dietary supplements for potency: review and evidence:

Many dietary supplements for potency contain various natural components, which are claimed to improve erectile function and libido. It is important to critically evaluate evidence confirming the effectiveness of these components.

• L-arginine: Amino acid, which is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (No). No plays an important role in relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the floor dick, which is necessary for an erection.
  • Proof: Some studies have shown that L-Arginine can improve the erectile function in men with mild or moderate ED, especially in combination with other additives, such as pycnogenol. However, the research results are ambiguous, and additional studies are needed.
  • Side effects: L-arginine can cause side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, bloating and headache.
• Ginseng (Panax Ginseng): The traditional Chinese medicinal plant, which is considered an adaptogen, that is, helps the body adapt to stress.
  • Proof: Some studies have shown that ginseng can improve erectile function and libido. It is believed that it stimulates the release of NO and improves the function of the endothelium.
  • Side effects: Ginseng can cause side effects, such as insomnia, nervousness, headache and an increase in blood pressure.
• Maka Peruvian (Lepidium Meyenii): A plant growing in the Andes, which is traditionally used to increase fertility and libido.
  • Proof: Some studies have shown that poppy can improve sexual desire in men, but its influence on the erectile function is less studied. The mechanism of action of poppies is not completely clear, but it is assumed that it affects the hormonal balance and neurotransmitters.
  • Side effects: Maca is usually considered safe, but in some people it can cause side effects, such as bloating and stomach disorder.
• Yohimbine (Pausinystalia Johimbe): African tree bark extract, which is alpha-2 adrenergic shower. It blocks alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which can lead to the expansion of blood vessels and an increase in blood flow to the penis.
  • Proof: Yochimbin is one of the most studied herbal remedies for the treatment of ED. Some studies have shown that it can be effective in the treatment of ED, especially in combination with L-arginine.
  • Side effects: Yochimbin can cause serious side effects, such as an increase in blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, nervousness and insomnia. It is contraindicated in people with cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure and anxious disorders.
• Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: A plant that is traditionally used to increase libido and muscle strength.
  • Proof: Evidence of the effectiveness of the tribulus to improve erectile function and libido are limited and contradictory. Some studies have shown that it can slightly improve sexual desire, but its influence on the erectile function has not been proven.
  • Side effects: The tribulus is usually considered safe, but in some people it can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder.
• Gryanka large -flowered (Epimedium Grandiflorum): A plant containing Ikariin, which is an inhibitor of phosphodesterase-5 (FDE-5), like sildenafil (Viagra).
  • Proof: Ikariin in vitro (in laboratory) showed activity similar to FDE-5 inhibitors. However, studies in humans are limited, and additional studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety.
  • Side effects: Information about the side effects of large -flowered burdock is limited.
• Zinc: The mineral necessary for the normal production of testosterone.
  • Proof: Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and a decrease in libido. Taking zinc can improve erectile function in men with zinc deficiency.
  • Side effects: Taking high doses of zinc can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and disorder of the stomach.
• Selenium: A mineral that plays a role in antioxidant protection and production of testosterone.
  • Proof: Selena deficiency can negatively affect spermatogenesis and sexual function. However, evidence of Selena’s effectiveness to improve erectile function is limited.
  • Side effects: Reception of high doses of selenium can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and hair loss.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin, which plays a role in the regulation of testosterone levels.
  • Proof: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a low level of testosterone and increased risk of Ed. Vitamin D intake can improve the erectile function in men with vitamin D.
  • Side effects: Taking high doses of vitamin D can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and hypercalcemia (increased blood calcium levels).

IV. The risks and side effects of natural dietary supplements for potency:

Despite the fact that dietary supplements are positioned as “natural” and “safe”, they can cause risks and side effects.

• Interaction with drugs: Many natural components of dietary supplements can interact with medicines that you take by enhancing or weakening their effect, or causing undesirable side effects. For example, yochimbin can interact with antidepressants and antihypertensive drugs. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplement if you take medicines.
• Inconsistency with the declared composition: Studies have shown that many dietary supplements do not correspond to the declared composition indicated on the packaging. They can contain less active ingredients than stated, or contain other substances that are not indicated on the label, including drugs, such as sildenafil (Viagra) or Tadalafil (Cialis). This can be dangerous to health, especially if you have contraindications for these drugs.
• Allergic reactions: Natural components of dietary supplements can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of allergies can include leather rash, itching, edema of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing.
• Research failure: Many natural components of dietary supplements for potency have not been quite studied, and their effectiveness and safety have not been proven. It is important to remember that “natural” does not always mean “safe” or “effective”.
• Masks of serious diseases: The use of dietary supplements for the treatment of ED can postpone a doctor and diagnostics of serious diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases or diabetes that can cause ED. It is important to identify and treat the main cause of Ed, and not just mask the symptoms.
• Lack of quality standards: Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not subject to strict quality control. This means that there is a risk of pollution of dietary supplements with heavy metals, pesticides or other harmful substances.

V. Alternative approaches to improving potency:

Before resorting to dietary supplements, consider other, more reliable and proven methods of improving potency.

• Life change change:
  • Healthy nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and low -fat proteins can improve the general state of health and erectile function. Limit the consumption of saturated fats, trans fats and sugar.
  • Regular physical exercises: Physical activity, especially aerobic exercises (for example, running, swimming, cycling) and strength training, can improve blood circulation, reduce weight and increase testosterone levels.
  • Weight loss: Obesity is associated with a low level of testosterone and increased risk of Ed. Weight loss can improve erectile function.
  • Refusal of smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and worsens the blood flow to the floor dick. Refusal of smoking can improve erectile function.
  • Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect erectile function.
  • Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can reduce testosterone levels and worsen the erectile function.
  • Stress management: A high level of stress can affect libido and erectile function. Use relaxation methods such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing to control stress.
• Medication:
  • Ingibiti FDA-5 (Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil, Avanafil): These drugs are the most effective and common drugs for the treatment of ED. They work by relaxing blood vessels in the penis and increasing blood flow, which facilitates the achievement and maintenance of an erection. They are available only by prescription of a doctor.
  • Injections of Alprodil: Alprostadil is a synthetic prostaglandin E1, which is introduced directly into the penis. It expands blood vessels and causes an erection. This treatment method is usually used when other methods are ineffective.
  • Vacuum erection devices: These are devices that create a vacuum around the penis to attract blood and cause an erection.
  • Putting therapy with testosterone (ZTT): ZTT can be recommended to men with a low level of testosterone who experience symptoms of hypogonadism, such as a decrease in libido and erectile dysfunction.
• Psychotherapy: If Ed is caused by psychological causes, such as stress, anxiety, depression or problems in relationships, psychotherapy can be useful. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT) and sexual therapy can help men cope with these problems and improve sexual function.
• Surgical treatment: In rare cases, when other methods of treatment are ineffective, surgical implantation of a penal prosthesis can be considered.

VI. How to choose a safe and effective dietary supplement for potency (if you still decide to use it):

If you still decide to use dietary supplements for potency, it is important to make a conscious and informed choice.

• Consult a doctor: This is the most important step. The doctor will be able to evaluate your health status, determine the cause of ED and recommend the most suitable treatment option. He will also be able to evaluate potential risks and dietary supplements with other medicines that you take.
• Look for dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers: Give preference to dietary supplements from manufacturers who comply with quality standards, have a good reputation and provide detailed information about their products.
• Check the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that you do not have allergies or intolerance to any ingredients. Avoid dietary supplements that contain ingredients with unproven effectiveness or potentially dangerous side effects.
• Look for independent certificates: Some organizations carry out independent certification of dietary supplements to check their quality and compliance with the declared composition. Look for dietary supplements that have such certificates.
• Read reviews: Read the reviews of other users, but remember that they can be subjective and not always reliable. Pay attention to the reviews that describe specific effects and side effects.
• Start with a low dose: If you decide to try dietary supplements, start with a low dose and gradually increase it by following your reaction.
• Be realistic in your expectations: Do not expect miracles from dietary supplements. They can help improve erectile function, but are not a panacea.
• Stop using if side effects occur: If you notice any side effects, stop using dietary supplements and consult a doctor.
• Remember the marketing: Do not succumb to aggressive marketing and promises of instant result. Be critical and evaluate the information you get.
• Avoid dietary supplements that are advertised as a “natural viagra”: These dietary supplements often contain hidden drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra) or Tadalafil (Cialis), which can be dangerous to health.

VII. Future research:

Further studies are needed for a more accurate determination of the effectiveness and safety of natural dietary supplements for potency. Future research should be randomized, placebo-controlled and include a sufficient number of participants. It is also important to investigate long -term effects and potential interactions of dietary supplements with other drugs. Scientists should focus on studying the mechanisms of action of natural components of dietary supplements and determine the optimal doses and use schemes. It is necessary to improve the regulation of the market of the baskets in order to ensure their quality, safety and compliance with the declared composition.

VIII. Conclusions (not a conclusion):

Natural dietary supplements for potency can be an attractive option for men who seek alternative methods of treatment of ED. However, it is important to remember that evidence of the effectiveness of many of these additives is limited, and they can cause risks and side effects. Before resorting to dietary supplements, it is recommended to consider other, more reliable and proven methods for improving potency, such as a change in lifestyle and drug treatment. If you still decide to use dietary supplements, it is important to consult a doctor, choose a product from a reliable manufacturer, carefully study the composition and be realistic in your expectations. Health and safety should be a priority when choosing any treatment method ED.