How much vitamin d for erectile dysfunction
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Vitamin D and Erectile Dysfunction: How Much is Needed?
Introduction to Erectile Dysfunction and Vitamin D
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition among men, often linked to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) due to shared pathogenic mechanisms such as endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress1 2. Recent research has explored the potential role of vitamin D in mitigating these risks, given its benefits in reducing endothelial damage and inflammation1 2.
Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Erectile Dysfunction
Evidence from Meta-Analyses
Several meta-analyses have investigated the relationship between vitamin D levels and ED. One comprehensive review found that while overall vitamin D levels did not significantly differ between men with and without ED, those with vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) had significantly worse erectile function scores1. Another meta-analysis supported these findings, showing that men without ED had higher vitamin D levels compared to those with ED, although the results varied based on detection methods and sample sizes2.
Specific Populations and Conditions
In elderly men with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), low vitamin D levels were independently associated with moderate to severe ED4. Similarly, men with type 2 diabetes and ED had significantly lower vitamin D levels compared to those with diabetes alone, suggesting that vitamin D deficiency may exacerbate ED in diabetic patients6.
Recommended Vitamin D Levels for Erectile Function
Optimal Serum Concentrations
Optimal serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D for general health and erectile function are considered to be between 30 and 80 ng/mL, with levels below 20 ng/mL classified as deficient7. Studies have shown that maintaining serum levels above 30 ng/mL can improve endothelial function and reduce the risk of ED7.
Vitamin D Supplementation
For adults aged 18-70 years, the recommended daily intake of vitamin D is 600 IU, increasing to 800 IU for those over 70 years7. However, to achieve and maintain optimal serum levels for erectile function, a higher intake of 1500-2000 IU/day may be necessary7. In clinical settings, vitamin D supplementation has been shown to improve erectile function scores significantly, especially in patients who did not respond to other treatments like PDE-5 inhibitors9.
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency is closely linked to the severity of erectile dysfunction, particularly in populations with underlying conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels through adequate supplementation can significantly improve erectile function and overall vascular health. For men experiencing ED, especially those with low vitamin D levels, a daily intake of 1500-2000 IU of vitamin D is recommended to achieve beneficial outcomes.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Is There an Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Erectile Dysfunction? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with severe forms of erectile dysfunction, regardless of testicular function.
Meta-Analysis
Very Rigorous JournalSerum vitamin D levels and erectile dysfunction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Higher vitamin D levels are not strongly associated with a reduced risk of erectile dysfunction, but more high-quality studies are needed to confirm this relationship.
Meta-AnalysisVitamin D and erectile dysfunction.
A significant proportion of erectile dysfunction patients have vitamin D deficiency, with higher levels being associated with arteriogenic etiology, and vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial for these patients.
Observational StudyLow Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Level as a Potential Risk Factor of Erectile Dysfunction in Elderly Men with Moderate to Severe Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Low vitamin D status is closely correlated with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction in elderly men with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms.
Observational StudyVery Rigorous JournalNovel predictive risk factor of erectile dysfunction: Serum 25‐hydroxy vitamin D
Decreased serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels are a significant predictor of erectile dysfunction severity, suggesting vitamin D replacement therapy may improve symptoms.
Observational StudySerum Vitamin D Level and Erectile Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Lower vitamin D levels may be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus with erectile dysfunction, suggesting a need for vitamin D supplementation in these patients.
Meta-AnalysisIs vitamin D and L-arginine deficiency associated with male erectile dysfunction?
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with male erectile dysfunction, and L-arginine supplementation improves erectile function and testosterone levels in middle-aged men.
Abstract 15583: Serum Vitamin D Deficiency is Independently Associated With Greater Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction: Results From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2004
Serum vitamin D deficiency is independently associated with a greater prevalence of erectile dysfunction in men aged 20 years, independent of CVD risk factors.
Observational Study
Rigorous JournalThe effect of vitamin D replacement in patients with lower urinary tract complaint/erectile dysfunction resistant to Tadalafil 5 mg treatment: A pilot clinical study
Vitamin D replacement combined with Tadalafil 5 mg treatment significantly improves erectile function and prostate symptoms in patients resistant to Tadalafil 5 mg treatment.
Non-RCTVitamin D treatment improves levels of sexual hormones, metabolic parameters and erectile function in middle-aged vitamin D deficient men
A 12-month high dose vitamin D treatment improves sexual hormone levels, metabolic parameters, and erectile function in middle-aged men with vitamin D deficiency.
Non-RCT
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