Better Sex Supplements: Are They Safe?
Between 40% and 70% of men suffer from sexual dysfunction at some point in their lives. This figure is likely much higher, but not everyone has the courage to share and seek medical attention when this happens. In many cases, over-the-counter remedies are resorted to, and nutritional supplements are the most common after-erection pills.
There is a huge variety of products based on ginseng, epimedium, fenugreek, ginkgo, maca, L-arginine and others. misleading information.
A team of urologists at the WFB Medical Center has studied many of these products and concluded that most of them do not have any evidence-based or visible results regarding erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or libido.
Some products advertised as “natural” contained phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5I) inhibitors, the same class of chemicals found in over-the-counter drugs such as Viagra. They are banned from trade because their use without consulting a doctor can lead to cardiovascular problems and endanger life. They are especially dangerous for men with heart or liver disease.
Another common ingredient in these supplements is DHEA – dehydroepiandrosterone. It is the most abundant steroid hormone in the human body. Scientists have found that it is completely useless for sexual dysfunction, but at least it does not harm either the body or the mind – its supplementation has almost no effect on the existing level of DHEA in the body.
Fenugreek is also very popular among similar products – it is found in one in four products in this category. It has properties that can improve sexual arousal and muscle strength, but only when combined with the right diet and exercise regimen. Side effects are not known.
Ginkgo biloba, surprisingly, is also common. There is no scientific evidence of its benefit for sexual dysfunction, but it can cause headaches.
Ginseng is one of the most popular supplements for these problems. There is not as much evidence for their beneficial effects as the fact that it causes headaches, indigestion, constipation, rashes, and insomnia. It also has the ability to dramatically lower blood sugar levels, which is especially dangerous for diabetics.
L-arginine is a bestseller in this category and is in the top three products. This may lead to improved erections in some patients. This is due to a noticeable drop in blood pressure without straining the heart.
Experts say one-time episodes of sexual dysfunction are normal, mostly due to stress. If they become more frequent or are associated with other problems, such as reduced libido or muscle strength, it is recommended to consult a doctor to find out the cause and prescribe the correct treatment.
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