5 Best Vitamins Against Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction, also referred to as impotence, is the condition where men have trouble getting or sustaining an erection. And, it is important to get to the bottom of the problem as it could greatly affect one's self-esteem and could take a toll in his relationship.

While there are some medication and other medical treatments for erectile dysfunction, there are some vitamins linked to improved sexual health. Here are the five best vitamins to boost erectile function.

Vitamin D

The vitamin D levels among men are usually linked with erectile dysfunction. According to one research, almost half of men with varying degrees of erectile dysfunction has low levels of vitamin D. And, those with severe form of erectile dysfunction have 24 percent lower levels as compared to those with mild forms, notes Men's Health.

When a man has vitamin D deficiency, the body may produce more free radicals called superoxide ions, which in turn reduces the nitric oxide. "Nitric oxide causes the blood vessels to relax, which increases the blood flow and causes an erection under normal circumstances," says Larry Lipshultz, M.D., a Men's Health Urology advisor.

Vitamin B3

In another study, researchers found that men with high levels of cholesterol could improve erectile function with the intake of vitamin B3, or niacin. According to the findings, published online in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, men who have moderate or severe erectile dysfunction showed improvement in their erection after they started taking niacin.

Niacin aids in improving cholesterol and lipid levels among those suffering from atherosclerosis, which is the accumulation of fats along blood vessel walls, says LiveScience. And, niacin could help with erection problem among men since atherosclerosis and erectile dysfunction have the same underlying causes.

Vitamin E

"Often referred to as the "sex vitamin", vitamin E is also considered an anti-aging antioxidant. It helps to protect the membranes of the cells from free-radical damage. It also promotes the creation of prostaglandins, hormones important to a healthy sex drive," wrote LovetoKnow Health.

Vitamin E also helps in the production of sex hormones like testosterone and may also promote blood flow circulation.

Vitamin C

Another vitamin that helps in good blood flow is vitamin C. It is important to include foods rich in vitamin C in your diet because it also boost sperm count and mobility, and promotes healthier veins for improved erectile function. Sources of natural vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, pineapple, papaya, tomatoes and spinach, says Healthline.

Vitamin A

Apart from its other health benefits that include bone growth, improved immune system and better vision, vitamin A is also vital in controlling the sex hormone progesterone for improved sexual health.