Many men have no problem getting and maintaining an erection so they can have an active sex life. However, age and other factors can take their toll on a man’s penis over time. Once a man hits 40 years old, many develop erectile dysfunction. This occurs when a man has trouble maintaining an erection hard enough for sexual intercourse.
Erectile dysfunction can by various medical issues and lifestyle choices such as the following:
- Smoking
- Alcohol use
- Diabetes
- Sleep disorders
However, age is typically the biggest factor. Half of all men over the age of 60 suffer from erectile dysfunction.
This can be frustrating for a man who wants to continue having a good sex life with their partner, but the good news is that there are medical treatments that can help. You might be most familiar with that little blue pill called Viagra. While it can be helpful, there are natural treatments, such as supplements and vitamins, that you can use as alternatives.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D has been linked with improved sexual function and cardiovascular health. This vitamin is known to improve blood flow to the penis, resulting in the production of testosterone as well as better erections.
Red Ginseng
Often known as “herbal Viagra,” red ginseng can greatly help with erectile dysfunction. It contains ginsenosides, which are compounds that help relax smooth muscle in the penis to make erections more attainable. It can also help with cardiovascular health, which can cause erectile dysfunction.
L-Arginine
This naturally occurring amino acid can help stimulate an erection. Supplementing with 1,500 to 5,000 mg of L-arginine has been known to help treat mild to moderate forms of erectile dysfunction. One study showed that 2,500 mg of L-arginine per day was just as effective as 5 mg of tadalafil, a common medication used to treat erectile dysfunction.
L-Carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid that aids in sperm production and cardiovascular health. It helps with erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis. It can improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction when used in conjunction with L-arginine and Viagra.
Yohimbe
Yohimbe is an African tree with bark that contains yohimbine, a chemical used for medicinal purposes. It is commonly marketed as a supplement for erectile dysfunction, as it has a consistent effect. Yohimbe works by blocking the receptors that prevent an erection. It also increases blood flow to the penis by widening blood vessels. It’s also known to increase sexual desire.
Contact Us Today
Erectile dysfunction is a condition that plagues more than 30 million men in the United States alone. Fortunately, there are supplements available to help a person have a happy and healthy sex life regardless of their erection problems.
Having trouble with erections? A Brooklyn urologist at Lazare Urology can help you understand the treatments and supplements available. Call (718) 568-7516 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation with our office. We serve the New York area and surrounding states.