Are There Any Foods Like Viagra That Give An Erection?

There has been myth and legend of certain food being aphrodisiac since the beginning of time. There may be some science backed merit to these claims, let’s explore in the article below.

What Makes a Food Act Like Viagra? 

Sildenafil (more commonly known as Viagra), is a type of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor; this supports increased blood flow to the penis to maintain an erection during sexual arousal. 

Regarding natural viagra in food, certain foods may boost a substance called nitric oxide in your body. Nitric oxide improves blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels and can have similar effects to Viagra. Some foods may also improve hormonal imbalances and increase sex drive. 

Top Natural Foods That Improve Erection

Improving your diet has shown positive outcomes in treating erectile dysfunction (ED). So what food works like viagra? 

As mentioned above, one explanation for erection problems is poor blood circulation linked to impaired nitric oxide activity. Decreased testosterone levels are also likely to contribute to sexual dysfunction as it is involved in sex drive. With this in mind, let’s explore what foods help with ED: 

– Vegetables rich in nitrates such as beetroot and spinach. Nitrates are eventually converted to nitric oxide which can help improve blood flow in the penis,

– Lycopene-rich foods such as watermelon and tomatoes. Lycopene is an antioxidant that can also improve blood flow for erections by relaxing blood vessels.

– Nuts like almonds walnuts can also contribute to boosting nitric oxide availability and therefore improve blood flow overall and aid erection difficulties.

– Shellfish may be some of the best food like viagra; it contains omega-3 which is linked to improved blood circulation. This is also good for both improving cardiovascular health and sexual health. Also, the zinc in shellfish can not only help improve testosterone levels but can also improve sperm quality.

– Herbal supplements such as Maca root, Fenugreek, Ginseng, and Saffron have been suggested as an alternative natural viagra. The research base for these is less clear but there is some evidence to suggest that these can also improve circulation, boost testosterone levels, and help treat erection difficulties.

How Effective Are Natural Foods Compared to Viagra?

 While there is talk about foods that increase erection, it is unlikely that severe erectile dysfunction can be effectively treated solely by increasing your intake of the foods mentioned above. 

Due to possible side effects of Viagra such as dizziness, nausea, and headaches, some people may want to know which foods act like viagra. It is important to remember that herbal remedies can also have side effects. Currently, the research suggests a combination of lifestyle changes and Viagra has significant improvement in treating erectile dysfunction.

What are the best food options for those with erectile dysfunction?

There is some evidence to suggest that certain vegetables high in nitrates and fruits high in lycopene can improve blood flow and support an erection. Furthermore, the zinc content in shellfish can help with sex drive and sperm quality. 

Therefore, having a balanced diet with leafy greens, high-protein foods, fruits, and healthy fats is the best food for erection. There is also some potential that adding herbal supplements and spices such as Saffron, Maca root, Fenugreek, and Ginseng to your diet can support sexual health and performance.

How do lifestyle changes affect the need for foods like Viagra?

The NHS website lists diabetes, depression or anxiety, and high blood pressure or cholesterol as key risk factors for erectile dysfunction. Therefore, lifestyle changes, notably maintaining a healthy weight and diet alongside regular exercise, have been shown to decrease the risk of erectile dysfunction and needing Viagra or foods like Viagra. 

Maintaining a healthy diet and weight can help decrease the risks of plaque buildup in vessels restricting blood flow to the penis. It can also help maintain healthy testosterone levels for sex drive. Also, cutting down on alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and avoiding recreational drugs can help with erection problems and overall health. Altogether, healthy lifestyle habits can also improve mood and decrease stress which can also help with erectile dysfunction.

Foods That Support Sexual Health and Performance

Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is a key aspect of supporting sexual health and performance. Spinach and beetroot are examples of vegetables high in nitrates that can help improve circulation for maintaining an erection. 

Similarly, tomatoes and watermelon contain important antioxidants that can help with circulation. 

Good circulation is important not only for erection rigidity and longevity but also for cardiovascular health and stamina. As such, foods high in protein and foods high in zinc such as shellfish, can help increase sex drive and performance. 

In addition, there are some natural supplements such as Gingko biloba, and Epimedium extract that have shown potential as an aphrodisiac.