Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem experienced by men. While there may be many underlying psychological, physiological and medical causes of ED, vascular disease (encompassing disorders that affect blood flow) is the most common. Increasing dietary intake of certain vitamins can improve blood flow throughout the body--including the penis. Although more studies are needed to determine the extent of the benefit provided by these vitamins, minerals and herbs, there is some evidence to suggest that many may improve erectile function.
Core Vitamins
There are several core vitamins that may improve sexual function. Vitamin A is essential to the regulation of the sex hormone progesterone. Vitamin B1 (thiamin) optimizes nerve transmission and cellular energy throughout the body, improving circulation and stamina. A form of vitamin B3 known as inositol hexaniacinate can improve circulation and lower cholesterol. Diabetics should not take this vitamin.
Vitamin C aids in the production of hormones related to fertility and sexual activity. Vitamin C can increase sperm count and motility, reduce blood cholesterol and strengthen veins. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties and promotes the production of hormones (prostaglandins) related to a healthy sex drive.
Trace Minerals and Amino Acids
The prostate gland stores concentrated amounts of zinc, and men with erectile dysfunction are known to have low levels of zinc. Zinc can improve the development of sperm and increase testosterone.
Magnesium is important in creating neurotransmitters that regulate the sex drive, as well as the sex hormones androgen and estrogen.
Selenium is a mineral that is related to sperm count. Roughly half of the selenium found in a man's body is in the testicles and semen ducts.
L-arginine is an amino acid that may help to improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction by enhancing the functioning of nitric oxide, a substance that increases blood flow.
Herbs
Certain herbs may improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Ginseng (panax ginseng) is purported to increase libido and prolong and erection. Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is considered to be an aphrodisiac that may improve various sexual disorders, while muira puama (Ptychopetalum olacoides) is used to improve libido.
Ginkgo biloba increases blood flow throughout the body and in the penis, potentially improving male sexual function. Epimedium (horny goat weed) is an ancient Chinese herb that may help to increase levels of testosterone in addition to relaxing smooth muscles and increasing blood flow. Saw palmetto helps to reduce the breakdown of testosterone, while yohimbe--a substance derived from the bark of an African tree--may be particularly helpful for those whose erectile dysfunction is caused by psychological factors.
Other Supplements
There are a few additional supplements that may have sexual enhancement effects. Flaxseed meal or flax oil will enrich the body with fiber, which can improve circulation and blood flow.
Bioflavonoids are believed to help maintain blood vessels and capillaries that carry important hormones, including sex hormones, thereby facilitating sexual performance.
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a building block for sex hormones that may be helpful to men with low testosterone levels.
