top of page

Essential4Health

Get Healthy ~ Stay Healthy

Essential4Health

Get Healthy ~ Stay Healthy

medical-practitioner-checking-health-status-patient-blood-pressure-check

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION

Description

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common condition characterized by the ongoing inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity. ED can significantly affect a person's quality of life and relationships. The causes are varied, including both physical and psychological factors. Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone, are common contributors, along with conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, narrowed blood vessels, neurological disorders, and chronic stress. ED is not solely linked to aging, as men of all ages may experience it due to a variety of underlying factors. Certain medications, both prescription and recreational, can also contribute to the development of ED. Effective management involves addressing the root causes, incorporating lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction, alongside medical interventions when necessary.

Body System

erectile-dysfunction-concept-upset-man-sitting-bed-with-woman-back

[1] Shim JS, Kim DH, Bae JH, Moon du G. Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Erectile Dysfunction in a Rat Model of Atherosclerosis-induced Chronic Pelvic Ischemia. J Korean Med Sci. 2016;31(4):585-589.
[2] Meldrum DR, Gambone JC, Morris MA, Esposito K, Giugliano D, Ignarro LJ. Lifestyle and metabolic approaches to maximizing erectile and vascular health. Int J Impot Res. 2012;24(2):61-68.
[3] Jensen TK, Priskorn L, Holmboe SA, et al. Associations of Fish Oil Supplement Use With Testicular Function in Young Men. JAMA Netw Open. 2020;3(1):e1919462.
[5] Qazi IH, Angel C, Yang H, et al. Role of Selenium and Selenoproteins in Male Reproductive Function: A Review of Past and Present Evidences. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019;8(8):268. Published 2019 Aug 2.
[6] Jerysz A, Lukaszewicz E. Effect of dietary selenium and vitamin E on ganders' response to semen collection and ejaculate characteristics. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2013;153(1-3):196-204.
[7] Moslemi MK, Tavanbakhsh S. Selenium-vitamin E supplementation in infertile men: effects on semen parameters and pregnancy rate. Int J Gen Med. 2011;4:99-104. Published 2011 Jan 23.
[8] El-Kazaz SE, Abo-Samaha MI, Hafez MH, El-Shobokshy SA, Wirtu G. Dietary supplementation of nano-selenium improves reproductive performance, sexual behavior and deposition of selenium in the testis and ovary of Japanese quail. J Adv Vet Anim Res. 2020;7(4):597-607. Published 2020 Oct 1.
[9] Sprenger KB, Schmitz J, Hetzel D, Bundschu D, Franz HE. Zinc and sexual dysfunction. Contrib Nephrol. 1984;38:119-128.
[10] Mahajan SK, Prasad AS, McDonald FD. Sexual dysfunction in uremic male: improvement following oral zinc supplementation. Contrib Nephrol. 1984;38:103-111.
[11] Khedun SM, Naicker T, Maharaj B. Zinc, hydrochlorothiazide and sexual dysfunction. Cent Afr J Med. 1995;41(10):312-315.
[12] Antoniou LD, Shalhoub RJ, Sudhakar T, Smith JC Jr. Reversal of uraemic impotence by zinc. Lancet. 1977;2(8044):895-898.
[13] Dissanayake D, Wijesinghe PS, Ratnasooriya WD, Wimalasena S. Effects of zinc supplementation on sexual behavior of male rats. J Hum Reprod Sci. 2009;2(2):57-61.
[14] Cai T, Verze P, Massenio P, et al. Rhodiola rosea, folic acid, zinc and biotin (EndEP®) is able to improve ejaculatory control in patients affected by lifelong premature ejaculation: Results from a phase I-II study. Exp Ther Med. 2016;12(4):2083-2087.
[15] Suzuki E, Nishimatsu H, Oba S, Takahashi M, Homma Y. Chronic kidney disease and erectile dysfunction. World J Nephrol. 2014;3(4):220-229.
[16] Fernandes GS, Fernandez CD, Campos KE, Damasceno DC, Anselmo-Franci JA, Kempinas WD. Vitamin C partially attenuates male reproductive deficits in hyperglycemic rats. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2011;9:100. Published 2011 Jul 27.
[17] Brody S. High-dose ascorbic acid increases intercourse frequency and improves mood: a randomized controlled clinical trial. Biol Psychiatry. 2002;52(4):371-374.
[18] Prasad, Vijay & Bb, Ghongane & Bb, Nayak. (2017). Role Of Oxidative Stress And Vitamin C, E On Male Fertility: Mini Review.
[19] Helmy MM, Senbel AM. Evaluation of vitamin E in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in aged rats. Life Sci. 2012;90(13-14):489-494.
[20] Kondoh N, Higuchi Y, Maruyama T, Nojima M, Yamamoto S, Shima H. Salvage therapy trial for erectile dysfunction using phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and vitamin E: preliminary report. Aging Male. 2008;11(4):167-170.
[21] Lee HW, Lee MS, Kim TH, et al. Ginseng for erectile dysfunction. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021;4(4):CD012654. Published 2021 Apr 19.
[21] Jang DJ, Lee MS, Shin BC, Lee YC, Ernst E. Red ginseng for treating erectile dysfunction: a systematic review. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2008;66(4):444-450.
[22] Choi HK, Seong DH, Rha KH. Clinical efficacy of Korean red ginseng for erectile dysfunction. Int J Impot Res. 1995;7(3):181-186.
[23] de Andrade E, de Mesquita AA, Claro Jde A, et al. Study of the efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Asian J Androl. 2007;9(2):241-244.
[24] Kim TH, Jeon SH, Hahn EJ, et al. Effects of tissue-cultured mountain ginseng (Panax ginseng CA Meyer) extract on male patients with erectile dysfunction. Asian J Androl. 2009;11(3):356-361.
[25] Hong B, Ji YH, Hong JH, Nam KY, Ahn TY. A double-blind crossover study evaluating the efficacy of korean red ginseng in patients with erectile dysfunction: a preliminary report. J Urol. 2002;168(5):2070-2073.
[26] Price A, Gazewood J. Korean red ginseng effective for treatment of erectile dysfunction. J Fam Pract. 2003;52(1):20-21.
[27] Choi YD, Park CW, Jang J, et al. Effects of Korean ginseng berry extract on sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction: a multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical study. Int J Impot Res. 2013;25(2):45-50.
[28] Leisegang K, Finelli R. Alternative medicine and herbal remedies in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: A systematic review. Arab J Urol. 2021;19(3):323-339. Published 2021 Jun 11.
[29] Do J, Choi S, Choi J, Hyun JS. Effects and Mechanism of Action of a Tribulus terrestris Extract on Penile Erection. Korean J Urol. 2013;54(3):183-188.
[30] Zhang H, Tong WT, Zhang CR, et al. Gross saponin of Tribulus terrestris improves erectile dysfunction in type 2 diabetic rats by repairing the endothelial function of the penile corpus cavernosum. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. 2019;12:1705-1716. Published 2019 Sep 2.
[31] Roaiah MF, El Khayat YI, GamalEl Din SF, Abd El Salam MA. Pilot Study on the Effect of Botanical Medicine (Tribulus terrestris) on Serum Testosterone Level and Erectile Function in Aging Males With Partial Androgen Deficiency (PADAM). J Sex Marital Ther. 2016;42(4):297-301.
[32] Spivak LG, Platonova DV, Enikeev DV, Rapoport LM, Vinarov AZ, Demidko YL. Urologiia. 2018;(2):54-61.
[33] Kamenov Z, Fileva S, Kalinov K, Jannini EA. Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Tribulus terrestris in male sexual dysfunction-A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Maturitas. 2017;99:20-26.
[34] Rhim HC, Kim MS, Park YJ, Choi WS, Park HK, Kim HG, Kim A, Paick SH. The potential role of arginine supplements on erectile dysfunction: a systemic review and meta-analysis. The journal of sexual medicine. 2019 Feb;16(2):223-34.
[35] Xu Z, Liu C, Liu S, Zhou Z. Comparison of efficacy and safety of daily oral L‐arginine and PDE5Is alone or combination in treating erectile dysfunction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials. Andrologia. 2021 May;53(4):e14007.
[36] Cormio L, De Siati M, Lorusso F, Selvaggio O, Mirabella L, Sanguedolce F, Carrieri G. Oral L-citrulline supplementation improves erection hardness in men with mild erectile dysfunction. Urology. 2011 Jan 1;77(1):119-22.
[37] Shirai M, Hiramatsu I, Aoki Y, Shimoyama H, Mizuno T, Nozaki T, Fukuhara S, Iwasa A, Kageyama S, Tsujimura A. Oral L-citrulline and transresveratrol supplementation improves erectile function in men with phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover pilot study. Sexual medicine. 2018 Dec;6(4):291-6.
[38] Reiter WJ, Pycha A, Schatzl G, Pokorny A, Gruber DM, Huber JC, Marberger M. Dehydroepiandrosterone in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: a prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Urology. 1999 Mar 1;53(3):590-4.
[39] Reiter WJ, Pycha A, Schatzl G, Klingler HC, Märk I, Auterith A, Marberger M. Serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentrations in men with erectile dysfunction. Urology. 2000 May 1;55(5):755-8.
[40] Sohn M, Sikora R. Ginkgo biloba extract in the therapy of erectile dysfunction. Journal of Sex Education and Therapy. 1991 Mar 1;17(1):53-61.
[41] MacKay D. Nutrients and botanicals for erectile dysfunction: examining the evidence. Alternative Medicine Review. 2004 Mar 1;9(1).
[42] Zenico T, Cicero AF, Valmorri L, Mercuriali M, Bercovich E. Subjective effects of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) extract on well‐being and sexual performances in patients with mild erectile dysfunction: A randomised, double‐blind clinical trial. Andrologia. 2009 Apr;41(2):95-9.
[43] Shin BC, Lee MS, Yang EJ, Lim HS, Ernst E. Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review. BMC complementary and alternative medicine. 2010 Dec;10:1-6.

1. Selenium: Selenium may enhance semen quality with potential beneficial effects, particularly on sperm motility, suggesting a potential supportive role in erectile function.

2. Zinc: Zinc plays a vital role in producing key sex hormones like testosterone and prolactin. It also contributes to the creation of prostatic fluid, supporting overall sexual health.

3. Vitamin E: Vitamin E's antioxidant activity supports biochemical pathways leading to nitric oxide release, potentially contributing to improved erectile function.

4. Omega 3: Omega-3 stimulates the release of endothelial nitric oxide, a factor that can positively influence vascular function and support erectile health.

5. Vitamin C: Vitamin C modulates catecholaminergic activity (influencing stress response), improves vascular function, and supports pathways for nitric oxide release. These effects may contribute to enhanced erectile function.

6. Arginine: Arginine facilitates the relaxation of blood vessels, enhancing blood flow, which is crucial for achieving and maintaining an erection.

7. Citrulline: Citrulline converts into arginine in the body, leading to increased production of nitric oxide. This boost in nitric oxide aids in improving erectile function, particularly in mild to moderate cases.

8. Dehydroepiandrosterone [DHEA]: DHEA may improve erectile function, particularly in men with low levels of DHEA or testosterone, by optimizing hormonal balance and enhancing sexual performance.

1. Ginseng Extract: Ginseng, abundant in saponin, induces nitric oxide production, relaxing penile smooth muscles and potentially triggering erections. It may also enhance sexual arousal by boosting energy levels and influencing hormone regulation.

2. Tribulus Extract: Tribulus has demonstrated the ability to notably elevate serum testosterone levels, contributing to enhanced sexual function in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED).

3. Ginkgo Biloba Extract: Ginkgo biloba may improve blood flow and erectile function, particularly for those with ED stemming from impaired blood circulation.

4. Maca Root Extract: Maca has been shown to enhance sexual function, including addressing mild erectile dysfunction, in men. Its effects may extend beyond improving erectile function to promote overall sexual well-being and vitality.

No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.

No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.

Supplements

Plant Extracts

Natural Compounds

Alternative Treatments

Symptoms & Signs

Causes

Vascular Insufficiency, Medications, Sexual Organ Trauma, Alcohol and Tobacco Use, Endocrine Disorders, Psychological Factors

Books That You May Want To Read

How Nutrients Function

Amino Acids: Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins, crucial for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, they play key roles in maintaining proper pH levels, storing nitrogen, synthesizing hormones, and facilitating enzymatic reactions.


Fatty Acids: Fatty acids serve as energy sources, structural components of cell membranes, and precursors to signaling molecules. Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, play critical roles in brain function, cardiovascular health, and inflammation regulation.


Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.


Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.


Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components and biological detergents, such as phospholipids and bile salts, play critical roles in tissue repair, fat digestion, and overall bodily function. Phospholipids contribute to cell membrane integrity and fat emulsification, while bile salts are key to digesting and absorbing dietary fats. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.


Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.

Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide

Podcast Episodes To Listen To

Educational Videos To Learn From

Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider

References

Things To Do

Dietary recommendations for erectile dysfunction include the following:


  • a whole-foods-based diet rich in vegetables, fruit, protein, whole grains, and healthy fatty acids.

  • consuming a good amount of vegetables daily. Make sure you include fresh produce in every meal.

  • eating a portion of fruit every day.

  • consuming foods high in zinc, such as liver, oysters, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

  • eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, seafood, seaweed, kidney beans, nuts, and seeds.

  • staying hydrated.


Other recommendations include:


  • controlling your blood sugar levels and weight. Being overweight, obese, or having diabetes are known factors that influence the ability to achieve erection.

  • exercising regularly to avoid weight gain and improve circulation.

  • checking for possible heavy metal intoxication.

  • getting enough sleep.

  • Meditation, mindfulness, or yoga practice can help alleviate stress.

  • Watch out for substances in everyday items that contain endocrine disruptors. Check your cleaning supplies, hair, skin, and body care products, and foods for possible contaminants.

Things To Avoid

Foods and products to avoid for erectile dysfunction include:


  • sugar, candy, desserts, sweetened beverages, and drinks.

  • packaged, processed, junk, and fast foods.

  • deep-fried foods.

  • alcohol consumption because it decreases testosterone levels.


Furthermore, the following factors also contribute to the occurrence of erectile dysfunction:


  • smoke, and secondhand cigarrette smoke inhalation.

  • exposure to chronic stress.

  • obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and other metabolic health conditions.

  • endocrine diseases, such as hyper- and hypothyrodism.

  • lack of everyday physical activity.

  • intake of medications.

  • repressed feeling of anger or fear.

bottom of page