New research has suggested that Vitamin D isn’t just essential for overall immunity but can also impact your intimate life. A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology has revealed a significant link between vitamin D deficiency and erectile dysfunction (ED).
Researchers discovered that low levels of vitamin D may trigger a rise in superoxide, a type of free radical known to cause oxidative stress in the body. This stress can damage blood vessels and impair circulation — both of which are key factors in maintaining healthy erectile function.
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For the study, researchers analysed penile tissue from 12 organ donars with varying levels of vitamin D. Those with lower levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D showed weaker responses to nerve stimulation and less effective relaxation of penile blood vessels. Importantly, the deficiency appeared to reduce the effectiveness of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) such as sildenafil (Viagra), which are commonly prescribed for ED.
The findings suggest that men with low vitamin D might be more vulnerable to erectile dysfunction (ED), not just due to poor blood flow, but also because of internal oxidative imbalances that interfere with how blood vessels respond during arousal.
Although the findings are promising, the authors caution that the sample size in human studies was small, and more clinical trials are needed to confirm the results in broader populations.
Erectile Dysfuction is a common condition in which a man has trouble achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It can be occasional and related to stress or fatigue, but persistent ED may point to underlying health issues like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or hormonal imbalances.
Meanwhile, a recent study by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and ANVKA Foundation suggests that one in five Indians may be suffering from Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is often easy to correct with diet, sunlight, or supplements.
