Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of people annually. It is usually caused by underlying health issues or miscommunication of the body’s internal signals to induce and maintain an erection. Prescription medications can help treat ED, but it needs to be supported by lifestyle changes. Here are some natural aids for ED. These are foods that correct vitamin and other deficiencies in the body.

1. L-arginine
Nitric oxide is one of the essential signaling chemicals that the body uses to start and maintain the process of dilating the blood vessels to achieve an erection. L-arginine is an amino acid naturally found in the body and supports the levels of nitric oxide. So, it makes sense to boost L-arginine levels in the body by eating more foods that are rich in the compound. This is likely to have a beneficial effect on men whose ED is caused by the insufficiency of L-arginine.

Some natural sources of L-arginine are watermelon, nuts, seeds, legumes, meat, seaweed, pumpkin, and squash seeds. Adding these foods to the diet is one of the natural aids for erectile dysfunction.

2. Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)
An adequate intake of vitamin C is good for a person’s overall health. It is also one of the vitamins that enhances the process of releasing nitric oxide in the body. So adding more vitamin C to the diet is the right thing to do for a person who has insufficient nitric oxide levels. The vitamin is found in citrus fruits, berries, cantaloupe, watermelon, spinach, leafy greens, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and cabbage.

3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Vitamin B3 is being studied for its effectiveness in treating ED. It is a vitamin that has a beneficial effect on cardiovascular conditions. Since underlying cardiovascular issues primarily cause some ED cases, treating this will improve ED symptoms. Vitamin B3 is found in chicken breasts, tuna, turkey, liver, avocado, green peas, and mushrooms.

4. Vitamin D
This sunshine vitamin is essential for good health. Though there is no definitive research to prove that vitamin D helps treat ED, most ED patients are deficient in this vitamin. Good sources of vitamin D are sunshine, egg yolks, cheese, mushrooms, and fortified foods. Too much of this vitamin is toxic, and one should take supplements only on medical advice.

5. Herbs
Many herbs have been used in traditional medicines and natural aids for ED. Panax or red ginseng is rich in ginsenosides. This is believed to have a beneficial effect on lung function, inflammation, and blood flow.

These aids and supplements may not impact ED directly but help counteract the imbalances in the body that cause it. Any vitamin or supplement should be taken as per the recommendation of a medical practitioner. Too much of even natural foods can cause health and digestive issues.