Vitamin d and male health
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Vitamin D and Male Hormone Health: Testosterone and Androgens
Research shows a complex relationship between vitamin D and male hormone health. Observational studies often find that men with higher vitamin D levels tend to have higher testosterone, but most randomized controlled trials (RCTs) do not show a significant increase in testosterone after vitamin D supplementation in healthy men with normal baseline levels 126. However, some studies suggest that vitamin D supplementation may increase testosterone in men who are overweight, have low baseline vitamin D, or have testosterone at the lower end of the normal range 36. Overall, while vitamin D may have a small positive effect on total testosterone, it does not appear to significantly affect other reproductive hormones such as free testosterone, FSH, LH, SHBG, or estradiol 26.
Vitamin D and Male Reproductive Function: Fertility and Sperm Quality
Vitamin D plays a role in male reproductive organs, with receptors and metabolizing enzymes found in the testis, sperm, and reproductive tract 78. Studies consistently show a positive association between vitamin D levels and semen quality, especially sperm motility, in both fertile and infertile men 7910. Vitamin D may also influence sperm function by increasing intracellular calcium, which is important for sperm motility . However, evidence for vitamin D supplementation improving semen quality or fertility outcomes is still limited, and more clinical trials are needed 910.
Vitamin D and Erectile Function
Low vitamin D levels are linked to a higher risk of erectile dysfunction (ED). Research indicates that men with vitamin D deficiency are more likely to experience ED, and that vitamin D supplementation may improve erectile function by supporting blood vessel health and nitric oxide production, both of which are important for erections 45. Maintaining vitamin D within the recommended range (20–50 ng/mL) is suggested for optimal vascular and sexual health 45.
Vitamin D and Prostate Health
Vitamin D may help reduce the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and lower urinary tract symptoms, but there is not enough evidence to support its use for prostate cancer prevention or treatment . The role of vitamin D in prostate health is still being studied, and current evidence does not support supplementation for this purpose alone .
Conclusion
Vitamin D is important for several aspects of male health, including hormone balance, reproductive function, and sexual health. While higher vitamin D levels are associated with better testosterone and semen quality in observational studies, supplementation does not consistently improve testosterone or fertility in healthy men. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to erectile dysfunction and possibly to lower semen quality, so maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is beneficial for overall male health. More research is needed to clarify the benefits of vitamin D supplementation for specific male health outcomes.
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