What dietary supplements to choose to improve an erection?
Erectile dysfunction (Ed), or impotence, is an inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. The problem affects men of all ages, although with age its prevalence increases. The causes of ED can be diverse, including physical factors (cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hormonal disorders, neurological disorders), psychological factors (stress, depression, anxiety) and lifestyle (smoking, alcohol abuse, inactive lifestyle).
Although there are pharmaceuticals such as sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis) and Vialis) and Vialis (Levitra), many men prefer alternative approaches, including the use of biologically active additives (BAD). Bades, as a rule, contain natural ingredients, which are believed to have a positive effect on erection, libido and general sexual health. It is important to note that the effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary, and not all additives are backed up by convincing scientific evidence. Before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you have any related diseases or take medicines, you need to consult a doctor.
In this article, we will consider the most popular and studied dietary supplements that are often used to improve erection, discuss their alleged action mechanisms, affordable scientific data and potential side effects.
1. L-arginin
L-Arginine is an amino acid that plays an important role in the production of nitrogen oxide (No). NO is a vasodilator, that is, it relaxes the blood vessels, allowing a larger amount of blood to enter the penis, which is necessary to achieve and maintain an erection.
The mechanism of action:
- Transformation into nitrogen oxide: L-Arginine is the predecessor of NO in the body. The NO-syntase enzyme (NOS) catalyzes the transformation of L-arginine into No and L-cyrollin.
- Vasodilation: No activates the enzyme guanilatziclase, which increases the level of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (CGMP) in the cells of smooth muscles of blood vessels. CGMP causes relaxation of these cells, leading to expansion of blood vessels and increasing blood flow.
- Improving the blood supply to the penis: An increase in blood flow into the cavernous bodies of the penis contributes to an erection.
Scientific data:
Some studies have shown that L-Arginine can improve erectile function, especially in men with mild or moderate ED. However, the research results are ambiguous, and not all studies have shown a significant effect.
- One study published in the journal Journal of Sexual and Marital Therapyshowed that the intake of L-Arginine at a dose of 5 grams per day improved the sexual function in men with ED.
- Another study published in the journal BJU Internationalshowed that L-Arginin, combined with pycnogenol (pine cortex extract) was more effective for improving erection than a placebo.
Side effects:
L-Arginine is usually considered safe, but can cause side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain and decreased blood pressure, especially at high doses. It can also interact with some drugs such as drugs to reduce blood pressure and nitrates. People with herpes should be careful, since L-Arginine can contribute to relapse.
2. Ginseng (Panax Ginseng)
Ginseng is a plant tool that is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to increase energy, reduce stress and improve the general state of health. There are various types of ginseng, but the most studied and used to improve sexual function is Korean red ginseng (Panax Ginseng).
The mechanism of action:
- Improving blood flow: Ginseng can stimulate the release of NO, which leads to the expansion of blood vessels and an increase in blood flow in the penis.
- Antioxidant action: Ginseng contains antioxidants that can protect cells from damage by free radicals, including blood vessel endothelial cells, which helps to improve blood flow.
- Impact on hormonal balance: Some studies show that ginseng can affect the level of hormones, such as testosterone, which can have a positive effect on libido and sexual function.
- Reducing stress: Ginseng has adaptogenic properties, which means that it helps the body adapt to stress. A decrease in stress can indirectly improve the erectile function, since stress is one of the factors contributing to ED.
Scientific data:
Many studies have shown that Korean red ginseng can be effective for improving erectile function.
- Meta-analysis published in the journal British Journal of Clinical Pharmacologyshowed that Korean red ginseng significantly improves erectile function compared to placebo.
- Another study published in the journal International Journal of Impotence Researchshowed that taking Korean red ginseng for 8 weeks improved erectile function, sexual satisfaction and overall well -being in men with ED.
Side effects:
Ginseng is usually considered safe, but can cause side effects, such as insomnia, headache, anxiety and digestive disorders. It can also interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants and immunosuppressants. People with autoimmune diseases should be careful when taking ginseng.
3. Maka Peruvian (Lepidium Meyenii)
Maca Peruvian is the root that grows in the Andes in Peru. It is traditionally used to increase energy, fertility and sexual function.
The mechanism of action:
- Influence on hormonal balance: Maca does not contain hormones, but can affect the hormonal system, stimulating the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which regulate the production of hormones, including testosterone.
- Improving blood flow: Some studies show that poppy can improve blood flow, which can help improve an erection.
- Antioxidant action: Poppy contains antioxidants that can protect cells from damage to free radicals.
- Psychological effect: Macs can improve mood and reduce the alarm, which can indirectly improve sexual function.
Scientific data:
Some studies have shown that poppy can improve sexual function, but research results are ambiguous.
- Meta-analysis published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicineshowed that poppy can improve sexual desire, but does not have a significant effect on the erectile function.
- Another study published in the journal Andrologyshowed that the reception of poppies for 12 weeks improved the erectile function and sexual satisfaction in men with mild ed.
Side effects:
Maca is usually considered safe, but can cause side effects, such as digestive and insomnia disorders. People with thyroid diseases should be careful when taking poppies, as it can affect the function of the thyroid gland.
4. Yohimbin.
Yohimbin is an alkaloid obtained from the bark of the African tree by Johmbe. It is often used as an additive to improve erection and burning fat.
The mechanism of action:
- Blocking alpha-2 adrenergic receptors: Yochimbin blocks alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which are located in the blood vessels of the penis. Blocking these receptors leads to the expansion of blood vessels and an increase in blood flow in the penis.
- Increase level no: Yochimbin can help increase the level of NO, which also contributes to vasodilation.
- Improving mood and reducing anxiety: Yochimbin can have a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, improving mood and reducing anxiety.
Scientific data:
Some studies have shown that yochimbin can be effective for improving erectile function.
- Meta-analysis published in the journal Journal of Urologyshowed that Yochimbin significantly improves the erectile function compared to placebo.
- Another study published in the journal International Journal of Impotence Researchshowed that Yochimbin is effective for the treatment of ED related to psychological factors.
Side effects:
Yochimbin can cause side effects, such as anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, an increase in blood pressure and rapid heartbeat. It can also interact with some drugs such as antidepressants and drugs to reduce blood pressure. People with diseases of the heart, kidneys or liver should avoid taking yocimbin.
5. Citrullin
Citrullin is an amino acid that, like L-Arginine, is involved in the production of nitrogen oxide (No). However, citrullin turns into arginine in the body, which can make it more effective for increasing the level of NO than Arginine itself.
The mechanism of action:
- Transformation into Arginine: Citrullin turns into Arginine in the kidneys. Arginine is then used for NO production.
- Improving blood flow: An increased level of No helps to expand blood vessels and increase blood flow in a penis.
Scientific data:
Some studies have shown that citrullin can improve erectile function.
- One study published in the journal Urologyshowed that taking citrulline at a dose of 1.5 grams per day improved the erectile function in men with a slight ED.
- Another study published in the journal British Journal of Nutritionshowed that citrullin, combined with Arginine, improved the erectile function in men with ED caused by cardiovascular diseases.
Side effects:
Citrullin is usually considered safe, but can cause side effects, such as digestive disorders.
6. Tribulus Tribulus Terrestris)
Toltris tribulus is a plant that is traditionally used to increase libido and improve sexual function.
The mechanism of action:
- Influence on the level of hormones: It is assumed that the tribulus can stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulates the production of testosterone. However, scientific data on this issue are ambiguous.
- Improving blood flow: Some studies show that tribulus can improve blood flow.
- Antioxidant action: The tribulus contains antioxidants that can protect cells from damage by free radicals.
Scientific data:
Scientific data on the effectiveness of the tribulus to improve erectile function are ambiguous.
- Some studies have shown that tribulus can improve sexual desire and satisfaction, but does not have a significant effect on erectile function.
- Other studies have not shown any effect from taking a tribulus on an erectile function.
Side effects:
Tribulus is usually considered safe, but can cause side effects, such as digestive and insomnia disorders.
7. Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that plays an important role in many body functions, including reproductive function. It is necessary for the production of testosterone and sperm.
The mechanism of action:
- Testosterone synthesis: Zinc is involved in the synthesis of testosterone.
- Sperm quality: Zinc is important for sperm health.
- Improving blood flow: Some studies show that zinc can improve blood flow.
Scientific data:
Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and a deterioration in sexual function. Taking zinc additives can be useful for men with zinc deficiency.
- Research published in the journal Nutritionshowed that zinc intake improved the level of testosterone and sexual function in men with zinc deficiency.
Side effects:
High doses of zinc can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Long -term intake of high doses of zinc can lead to copper deficiency.
8. Vitamin D.
Vitamin D is a fat -soluble vitamin that is important for the health of bones, the immune system and the general state of health. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D can also play a role in sexual function.
The mechanism of action:
- Synthesis No: Vitamin D can participate in the synthesis of no.
- Testosterone level: Vitamin D can affect testosterone levels.
Scientific data:
Vitamin D deficiency can be associated with ED. Taking vitamin D additives can be useful for men with vitamin D.
- Research published in the journal Sexual Medicineshowed that men with ED had a lower level of vitamin D than men without Ed.
- Another study showed that the intake of vitamin D improved the erectile function in men with vitamin D. deficiency.
Side effects:
High doses of vitamin D can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and hypercalcemia.
Important considerations when choosing dietary supplement to improve an erection:
- Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor can determine the cause of ED and recommend the most suitable treatment, including dietary supplements.
- Quality product: Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who are testing for quality and cleanliness.
- Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions on the product label. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Side effects: Follow any side effects and stop taking dietary supplements if they arise.
- Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with some drugs. Tell your doctor about all the dietary supplements you accept.
- Realistic expectations: Bades are not a magical remedy for the treatment of Ed. They can be useful as an addition to a healthy lifestyle, but will not replace traditional medical treatment.
Additional strategies to improve erection:
In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are a number of other strategies that can help improve the erectile function:
- Healthy lifestyle:
- Regular physical exercises.
- Healthy nutrition with a high content of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Refusal of smoking.
- Moderate drinking alcohol.
- Stress management:
- Relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga.
- A sufficient dream.
- Application for help to a psychologist or psychotherapist.
- Treatment of concomitant diseases:
- Treatment of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and other diseases that can contribute to ED.
- Sexy therapy:
- Sexual therapy can help solve psychological problems that can affect the erectile function.
In conclusion, the choice of dietary supplement to improve an erection is an individual process that should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor. It is important to choose quality products from reliable manufacturers, observe the recommended dosage and monitor any side effects. Bades can be useful as an addition to a healthy lifestyle and the traditional medical treatment of Ed.