Maybe you’ve heard of taking Vitamin D supplements to help slow down bone loss, but what about taking it to improve your sexual function and satisfaction?
According to a recently published study which took place in Italy over the last 15 years, Vitamin D deficiency might play a part in erectile dysfunction and other sexual dysfunctions in men. Each of the 114 participants were assessed for five aspects of male sexual life, including erectile and orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction, and over the course of the study, researchers found that higher levels of Vitamin D was associated with higher scores for all five of those aspects.
Some of the participants of the study were given Vitamin D supplements over the course of their treatment for sexual dysfunction. “Vitamin D levels are directly able to influence all sexual function parameters,” the authors of the study wrote. “Evaluation of our study clearly shows the improvement of erectile function after vitamin D replacement therapy.”
Vitamin D is also a necessary nutrient for both men and women’s health, and Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to various cancers, cognitive impairment in older adults, depression and tiredness, and an increased risk of heart disease, so it’s worth making sure you’re getting a sufficient amount of Vitamin D even if you are satisfied with your sexual function. It can be difficult to know that you’re getting the right amount of Vitamin D just from exposure to the sun, and particularly during the Winter it can be tough to get enough sunlight. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is linked to a lack of Vitamin D during the winter months and rainy seasons, and results in depression. All of this can be treated with a daily Vitamin D supplement.
As we go through the Winter season, think about how much Vitamin D you’re getting from natural sunlight and if you might benefit from more time spent outside or from a supplement. You can always call us at 202-293-1000 to make an appointment at our office in Washington, DC if you have questions about how a lack of Vitamin D might be affecting your sexual function.