Millions of men experience gradual loss of erectile function due to diminished overall health as they age or slip into poor health habits. However, improving cardiovascular, neurologic and cellular function by adding dietary supplements can have a positive impact on erectile function. In fact, supplements may boost the effects of clinical treatments prescribed by doctors.
Dietary supplements and compounds come from substances that occur in nature, but not all are created equal. In the U.S. there is no regulation of supplements. The 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act holds manufacturers responsible for safety, quality and truthful marketing; it is not legal to make medical claims, and any suggested health benefits should be backed by published research. It is up to consumers to verify research and performance claims and to buy high quality formulations from reputable manufacturers through trusted distributors.
There are supplements that support the physical systems involved in erectile function (blood flow, nerve function, and smooth muscle tissue). They fall into two categories: those that contribute directly to pelvic blood flow and penile neural function, and those that contribute indirectly by enhancing overall cardiac, tissue and nerve health. Where psychogenic causes like depression or anxiety are present, there are supplements that can raise energy levels and stabilize moods while lowering the impact of stress (and thus calming the production of adrenaline that inhibits erections).
Formulas that support or improve sexual function may contain any of a number of ingredients. The most common are maca (increase in libido), acetyl L carnitine (elevates energy level and increases testosterone production), gingko biloba (circulatory benefits) and ginseng (stimulant properties). An amino acid, L-arginine, assists nitric oxide production and relaxes smooth muscle for better penile blood flow. An alkaloid from the Catuaba tree in Brazil may stimulate the central nervous system and increase libido.
NOTE: Some supplements stimulate testosterone production, so prostate cancer patients should consult with their urologist before purchasing such products.
The advantages of adding supplements to one’s diet include their over-the-counter availability, direct and indirect support for overall health and energy, specific formulas for pelvic nerves and blood flow, and enhancing medical treatments prescribed by doctors.
Disadvantages include the scarcity of large-scale, rigorous peer-reviewed clinical studies (in some cases, the ingredients have been studies but the combination in commercial formulas has not) and the lack of regulation in the U.S.
The bottom line is that supplements can be a safe and relatively inexpensive contribution to general and pelvic health. When taken daily in moderate amounts as recommended by the manufacturer, side effects are rare. Consumers are cautioned, however, to use products from reputable manufacturers and search for sound clinical
research that supports their claims.
