Foods That Naturally Contain PDE5 Inhibitors: The Best Alternatives to Viagra

Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors improve blood flow and support erectile function. While drugs like Viagra contain synthetic PDE5 inhibitors, certain food items may also help by promoting blood circulation and relaxing blood vessels. In this blog, we’ll discuss foods that act as natural PDE5 inhibitors and how they can support better sexual health and overall well-being.

What are PDE5 inhibitors?

PDE5 inhibitors are medications that inhibit the action of certain enzymes responsible for keeping blood flow through the veins and arteries in your body under control.

PDE5 Inhibitors Uses

PDE5 inhibitors are used to treat the following conditions [1] –

• Erectile dysfunction
• Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the heart and lungs.
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia is an enlargement of the prostate gland.

How Do PDE5 Inhibitors Work?

PDE5 inhibitors work by inhibiting the action of the PDE enzyme. This inhibition relaxes the blood vessels and improves blood flow [2].

In people with erectile dysfunction, PDE5 inhibitors improve blood flow to the penis, which in turn improves erectile function.

In individuals with pulmonary arterial hypertension, PDE5 inhibitors work by:

• Controlling blood flow to the arteries of the lungs
• Increasing blood flow to the lungs
• Lowering blood pressure.

PDE5 inhibitors work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the prostate and bladder in the case of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

It is essential to know that PDE5 inhibitors can circulate blood in other areas of the body as well as in the penis. You should keep in mind that PDE5 inhibitors do not act instantly. It takes time for the medication to work on a man’s body. You can expect to get an erection an hour after taking the medicine.

To get detailed insights about PDE5 inhibitors, we have a blog page PDE5 inhibitors: How they work, types, and more.

What Foods Contain PDE5 Inhibitors?

When it comes to improving erectile function and overall sexual health, exploring alternatives (natural) can be a practical option. Many food items provide the same effect as PDE5 inhibitor medications.

Horny Goat Weed

Horny goat weed, also referred to as Epimedium, is a flowering plant native to Eastern Asia.

The name horny goat weed comes from a Chinese goat herder who noticed improved sexual activity in his herd after they ate the leaves of this plant.

Icarionin is the active ingredient in horny goat weed. Research suggests that this active compound may inhibit PDE5, increase nitric oxide in the penis, and offer various potential benefits for erectile dysfunction [3].

Pomegranate Juice

In a study by Kroeger N, it was found that the juice of pomegranate is associated with improvements in erectile dysfunction in men.

This is because studies have shown that the antioxidants in pomegranate juice raise nitric oxide levels.

Nitric oxide is a naturally produced molecule that improves blood flow in your vascular system.

Kaempferia parviflora (black ginger)

Black ginger, also known as Kaempferia parviflora or Thai ginger, is a plant native to Thailand.

Animal and lab studies have found that this plant may have moderate PDE5-inhibiting effects [4]. A small study with 13 participants observed that Kaempferia parviflora may improve ED in men (ages 50-70 years), but more research is required to understand the benefits fully.

Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus terrestris is a leafy plant that grows in Europe, Asia, and Africa. Research has found that natural alkaloids in the plant may have PDE5-inhibiting effects.

A 2017 clinical trial found that Tribulus Terrestris was able to significantly improve erectile function in men aged 18 to 65 with moderate erectile dysfunction and that it was generally well-tolerated [5].

Watermelon

This refreshing fruit contains an amino acid called citrulline. Citrulline helps produce nitric oxide – a free radical that relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow. As blood flow improves throughout the body, its ability to reach the penis increases, leading to improvements in erectile function.

Dark Chocolate

Eating dark chocolate can provide benefits sexually. It contains flavonoids (plant-based compounds) known for their antioxidant properties. Flavonoids are rich in antioxidants and are known for their antioxidant properties.

These flavonoids promote nitric oxide synthesis, ultimately resulting in healthy blood flow and potentially aiding in erectile function.

Spinach

This leafy green is not only full of essential nutrients, but it also contains high levels of nitrates. Nitrates are converted into nitric oxide in the body, which, as a result, widens blood cells. This is potentially beneficial for erectile function.

Foods That Block PDE5 Inhibitors

Some foods, as mentioned above, can enhance PDE5 inhibition, while others can negatively affect erectile function, including –

Processed Foods

Processed foods can cause inflammation and damage blood vessels, affecting blood flow and decreasing the benefits of PDE5 inhibitors.

Foods High in Sugar

Excessive sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance, which may impair blood flow and reduce nitric oxide levels, limiting the effectiveness of PDE5 inhibitors.

High-Salt Foods

Excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure, damage blood vessels, and impair blood circulation. This can impact nitric oxide production and hinder the positive effects of PDE5 inhibitors.

If you’re someone suffering from ED and your condition doesn’t improve even after trying natural alternatives, then it is essential to consult a doctor or take medications for this condition.

Moreover, if you want to improve ED naturally through lifestyle changes, adopting a healthy diet is essential, as a healthy diet and erectile function go hand in hand.

Conclusion

Exploring food items containing PDE5 inhibitors can be a proactive step toward improving men’s sexual health. While these foods may offer potential benefits, it is crucial to remember that the results may vary from person to person.

It is always best to consult a healthcare provider before significantly changing your diet or trying new medications or supplements.