Currently, the research on the effects of vitamins and vitamin deficiencies on sexual health is very limited. Nevertheless, given that vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for normal growth and for regulating bodily functions, it follows that a person’s vitamin levels could affect their sexual functioning as well. The following is what is known thus far about vitamins and their potential impact on sexual function.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D, which can be produced through sun exposure and is found in fatty fish and fortified milk, is perhaps the most highly researched vitamin in terms of sexual health. In men, vitamin D appears to support testosterone production and healthy endothelial function. (The endothelium is a thin layer of cells inside the heart and the blood vessels that is necessary for relaxing and contracting the blood vessels, controlling blood clots, and helping with the body’s immune response).
Researchers have found that vitamin D helps stimulate nitric oxide and antioxidants in the endothelium which reduces inflammatory diseases that can hurt a person’s vascular function. This, in turn, may improve vascular function, which is very important for erectile function.
Past studies have found correlations between healthy levels of vitamin D and improved male sexual function. One such study found that men with vitamin D deficiency had significantly lower International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores than the men in the control group.
For women, vitamin D has been shown to help with the secretion of estrogen and the maturation of vaginal cells. Estrogen is a key hormone when it comes to female sexual function as it helps support healthy vaginal tissues and good lubrication, which makes sex more comfortable and enjoyable for women. In fact, intravaginal vitamin D suppositories have shown positive results in improving painful sex and vaginal atrophy symptoms in postmenopausal women when compared to a placebo.
Vitamin C
Similar to vitamin D, vitamin C has been shown to be protective against endothelial dysfunction. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps with nitric oxide availability, which supports the endothelial and vascular function that crucial for good sexual functioning. This vitamin is found in citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and tomatoes.
Vitamin E
In animal studies, vitamin E levels appear to be associated with Leydig cells, which are the main source of testosterone in males. Animals with vitamin E deficiency had a lower number of Leydig cells, lower testicular weights, and more testicular damage than healthy animals. While it appears that vitamin E may be helpful for testosterone production and, consequently, sexual functioning, it is important to determine if these findings translate to humans as well. Vitamin E is found in nuts, seeds, avocados, mangos, and plant-based oils.
Vitamin B9 (Folate)
Folate is found in beans, peanuts, whole grains, and dark leafy vegetables. Like other vitamins, it contributes to healthy endothelial function. Additionally, it is very important for metabolizing serotonin, which plays a major role in regulating ejaculation. A 2014 study in China found that folate deficiency was associated with erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation in men. However, further research needs to be done to see how this vitamin may impact sexual functioning of humans across the board.
The Bottom Line
Vitamins may help support healthy sexual functioning, but sexual health is comprised of many different components including neurological processes, vascular function, mental health, and even relationship dynamics. Therefore, one should not expect that any sexual health issue can be solved by taking a multivitamin. Still, these findings suggest that there may be a sexual health benefit to eating a healthy, balanced diet and taking supplements to address any vitamin deficiencies you may have.
References:
Ali, M., Smith, R.P., & Ortiz, N.M. (2022). The Impact of Vitamin Deficiencies on Sexual Health. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 19(9), 1313-1316. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.06.013
Crafa, A., Cannarella, R., Condorelli, R.A., La Vignera, S., & Calogero, A.E. (2020). Is there an association between vitamin D deficiency and erectile dysfunction? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients, 12(5), 1411. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12051411
Yan, W.J., Yu, N., Yin, T.L., Zou, Y.J., & Yang, J. (2014). A new potential risk factor in patients with erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation: folate deficiency. Asian Journal of Andrology, 16(6), 902. DOI: 10.4103/1008-682X.135981
You may also be interested in...
Did You Know?
What Is the Average Penis Size?
June 1, 2021SMSNA Patients
Sex and Multiple Sclerosis: Barriers Between Patients and Providers
May 18, 2021Blog
The Gynogram: Paving the Way for Better Postmenopausal Sex?
July 6, 2021SMSNA Patients
New Survey Finds Most Adolescents Who Have Labia Minora Surgery Are Satisfied
May 4, 2021Did You Know?
Outercourse
March 23, 2021Did You Know?
Alcohol and Temporary Erectile Dysfunction
February 2, 2021Did You Know?
Q&A on “Blue Ball” Syndrome
January 20, 2021SMSNA Patients
Benefits of Sexual Activity During COVID-19 Lockdown
February 9, 2021Blog
An Overview of Hard Flaccid Syndrome
March 2, 2021Other Popular Articles
What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?
The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.
What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?
Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.
What Is the Average Penis Size?
If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.
What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?
Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.
Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.
The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive
You may have heard references to “being sex-positive” or “the sex-positivity movement” in popular culture. Various celebrities have brought attention to this movement by speaking out about their beliefs and personal experiences regarding sexuality, sexual health, body positivity, “slut-shaming,” and sexual assault.
