Men's Reproductive Health: ED
Article
Folic acid and erectile dysfunction. New evidence suggests low folic acid levels may increase chances for erectile dysfunction (ED). In this study, doctors measured folic acid levels in 60 men with ED and compared them to folic acid levels in 30 healthy men. Folic acid levels in the ED group were nearly half that of healthy men: 7.1 vs. 13.4 nanograms per milliliter of blood (ng/mL). Low folic acid levels were linked to diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol, and smoking.
Men with folic acid levels below 2.2 ng/mL are considered deficient, but tests are able to begin predicting higher chances for ED when folic acid levels fall below 9.43 ng/mL. (Reference: International Urology and Nephrology; December, 2018, Published Online)
Product Recommendations:
I suggest that men suffering from erectile dysfunction, decreased libido or impaired sexual function also consider two PhtyoTech™ Herbal Supplements, PhytoTech™ Male Virility and PhytoTech™ Maca Enhanced. Information on those two products is included below.
PhytoTech™ Male Virility is a blend of well-researched herbs known to enhance men's libido and sexual performance. (1 fl oz - Product Code: 57731) It is specifically designed for those men who suffer from decreased libido or impaired sexual function.
Ingredients: PhytoTech™ Male Virility contains Maca Root 97 mg, Epimedium Herb 75 mg, Fresh Wild Oat Seed 75 mg, Tribulus Seed 75 mg, Yohimbe Bark 50 mg, Saw Palmetto Berry 17 mg, American Ginseng Root 17 mg, Vitamin B12 60 mcg, L-Arginine 20 mg, Pine Park Extract 5 mg.
Cautions: There may be serious underlying medical problems that could contribute to, or cause, male sexual dysfunction. Consult with a physicial to determine if such problems exist. Use this product under the supervision of a health professional.
Dosage: 30 drops, once per day in juice or water.
PhytoTech™ Maca Enhanced. This supplements provides an enhanced form of Maca, valued for its effect on Libido, Male and Female Hormonal Balance, Stress and Fatigue.
It is designed to benefit:
• Those low in energy and stamina
• Those looking to increase libido, enhance fertility
• Support adrenal function, normalize hormonal balance
Ingredients:
Liquid: 500 mg/ml
Veggie Cap: Each two capsules contain the following: Organic Maca (Lepidium meyenii) (Raw) 800mg, Organic Maca (Gelatinized) 200mg. Total: 1000 mg.
Powder: Organic Maca powder, in the same 4:1 ratio of raw to gelatinized. One teaspoon full provides 3 grams of organic, raw/gelatinized Maca Root. The vegetarian capsule contains Modified Vegetable Cellulose.
Blending raw and gelatinized Maca is thought to enhance the bioavailability and potency of Maca.
Properties:
Traditionally, Maca has been shown to exhibit the following properties: Adaptogenic, Aphrodisiac, Antioxidant
Indications:
Maca is a root plant native to Peru where it grows in harsh environments at very high altitudes. It is known for its resiliency, being able to survive in the most extreme conditions of freezing temperatures, intense sunlight, and strong winds. Maca has been used for thousands of years by Peruvians as both a food and a medicinal tonic to promote energy and stamina, increase libido and enhance fertility. It contains amino acids, carbohydrates, fatty acids, fiber, minerals and phytonutrients.
Maca is a powerful adaptogen that helps the body deal with biochemical, physiological, and psychological stressors. It has a revitalizing effect on those who are feeling low in energy and vitality. Used as a tonic it can help reduce stress, increase energy levels and mental focus, and restore strength and vigor. It can help improve athletic performance by improving stamina and helping the body recover faster.
Maca is a member of the Brassicacae family (the same family as cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli). Maca is unique however in that it contains much higher amounts of glucosinolates, which are believed to contribute to its ability to enhance fertility. Aromatic isothiocyanates in Maca are thought to be primarily responsible for Maca's aphrodisiac properties. Prostaglandins, sterols and amides are also thought to have a contributing role.
Maca does not appear to affect blood levels of testosterone, estradiol, and luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone or prolactin; however it has a balancing effect on these hormones, enhancing sexual function, and increasing libido in both men and women. This is thought to be due in part to the effect of alkaloids in Maca that act on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. For perimenopause and post menopause, Maca can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats, improve mood, lessen irritability and anxiety, decrease sexual dysfunction, and increase energy levels.
Maca can also help reduce the sexual dysfunction and lowered libido often experienced by those taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's) for depression)
Dosage:
Veggie Cap: Take 2 caps, 1-2 times per day.
Powder: One teaspoonful, once per day, or as directed by a health care professional.