Whether ED (erectile dysfunction) can be treated with supplements is a question that many people are wondering. Supplements have the potential to help improve ED (erectile dysfunction), but it is difficult to completely treat ED with supplements alone. Although they generally contain ingredients that are believed to help improve ED (erectile dysfunction), these effects vary from person to person, and scientific evidence is often insufficient.

HIRO CLINIC recommends a safe and inexpensive oral medication since it is a PDE5 inhibitor.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the benefits and limitations of supplements for ED (erectile dysfunction), the precautions to take when using them, and consider the role of supplements and their appropriate use.

1. Supplement Benefits

• Arginine: An amino acid that helps the body produce nitric oxide (NO).Nitric oxide dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow, which may contribute to the improvement of ED (erectile dysfunction).However, its effect varies from person to person and may be limited.
• Citrulline: Like arginine, this amino acid promotes the production of nitric oxide in the body. When used in combination with arginine, it may be expected to improve blood flow.
• Ginseng (Panax ginseng): a traditional herb that is believed to help improve sexual function. Ginseng has the potential to improve blood flow and increase energy and stamina. However, it should be used with caution, as it may cause side effects when used for long periods of time.
• Horny Goat Weed: A herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to improve sexual function, it is believed to inhibit the PDE5 enzyme, but clinical data are limited.
• Maca: Native to Peru in South America, this plant is believed to increase libido and stamina.It has been reported to increase energy and libido, but its effectiveness in the underlying treatment of ED (erectile dysfunction) has not been established.
• Zinc: This mineral is involved in the production of sex hormones and is important for sperm health.Zinc supplementation may be effective because zinc deficiency can cause ED.

2. Limitations of Supplements

• Individual differences in effectiveness: The effects of supplements vary widely from person to person; what may work for one person may not work for another. Also, if the ED is caused by medical problems such as vascular, neurological, or hormonal problems, it is often difficult to improve with supplements.
• Lack of scientific evidence: some supplements have shown promising effects on ED, but the scientific evidence supporting these effects is often not well established. Many supplements may play only an adjunctive role.

3. Precautions when using supplements

• Quality and Safety: Over-the-counter supplements may not be uniform in quality or ingredients, so it is important to choose a brand you trust.It is also important to consult with a physician before using supplements, as the ingredients in them may interact with other medications.
• Don’t Expect Too Much: Supplements should not be expected to be excessive and should be viewed only as an adjunctive measure; if the cause of ED is serious, supplements alone often do not provide sufficient therapeutic benefit.

4. Consultation with a physician is required

• Professional diagnosis is important: Because the causes of ED are so varied, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis. Appropriate treatment is necessary, especially if cardiovascular or hormonal problems are the cause.
• As part of a treatment plan: Supplements should be used as part of an ED treatment plan under the guidance of a physician; ED treatment may require multiple approaches, including medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Summary

Supplements are sometimes used as an adjunctive measure to improve the symptoms of ED, but it is difficult to expect them to provide a fundamental cure. Certain supplements may provide temporary improvement, but their effectiveness varies from person to person and often lacks scientific support; if the cause of ED is serious or if the effects of supplements are not fully felt, diagnosis and appropriate treatment by a medical specialist is essential The use of supplements is not recommended for all patients. It is important to consult with a physician and use supplements with due consideration for quality and safety.

If you are health conscious and concerned about supplements as well as ED, please consult with us at HIRO CLINIC. We may be able to suggest what we carry at HIRO CLINIC and what is best suited for your body.

記事の監修者

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岡 博史 先生

CAPラボディレクター

慶應義塾大学 医学部 卒業

医学博士

医師