The influence of dietary supplement on male libido

Section 1: Understanding of male libido and factors affecting it

Male libido, or sexual desire, is a complex biological and psychological process, which is influenced by many factors. Understanding these factors is extremely important for an adequate assessment of the potential effect of biologically active additives (dietary supplements) on this sphere.

1.1 Biological factors:

Testosterone level: Testosterone, the main male sex hormone, plays a key role in the regulation of libido. A decrease in the level of testosterone, which can occur with age (age-related hypogonadism), due to diseases (hypogonadism caused by diseases), or due to taking certain drugs, often leads to a decrease in sex drive. Testosterone affects sexual desire, erectile function and overall well -being. Its deficiency can manifest itself not only in a decrease in libido, but also in fatigue, depression, a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in adipose tissue.
The state of the cardiovascular system: The health of the cardiovascular system is directly related to the sexual function. Adequate blood flow is necessary for an erection, and any circulatory disorders caused, for example, atherosclerosis, hypertension or diabetes, can negatively affect libido and potency. Endothelial dysfunction, impaired function of the inner layer of blood vessels, can also play an important role in the development of sexual dysfunction.
The function of the nervous system: The nervous system, in particular, sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, plays an important role in the regulation of sexual excitement and erection. Nervous pulses transmitted from the brain to the genitals are necessary for normal sexual function. Diseases of the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or trauma of the spinal cord, can lead to sexual dysfunction. In addition, some drugs affecting the nervous system, such as antidepressants, can have a side effect in the form of a decrease in libido.
Hormonal balance (except testosterone): In addition to testosterone, other hormones, such as prolactin, estrogen and thyroid hormones, can also affect libido. An increased level of prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) can suppress the production of testosterone and lead to a decrease in sex drive. Disorders of the thyroid function, both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, can also have a negative effect on libido and sexual function. It is important to note that estrogens, although they are considered female sex hormones, are present in small quantities in both men and their balance with testosterone are important for normal sexual function.

1.2 Psychological factors:

Stress: Chronic stress is one of the main enemies of libido. Stress causes the release of cortisol, stress hormone, which can suppress the production of testosterone and negatively affect sexual desire. In addition, stress can lead to anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances, which can also worsen libido.
Depression and anxiety: Depression and anxiety disorders are often accompanied by a decrease in libido. This can be due to both neurochemical changes in the brain and psychological factors, such as low self -esteem, guilt and lack of interest in life. In addition, some antidepressants, as already mentioned, may have a side effect in the form of a decrease in libido.
Relationships problems: An unsatisfactory relationship with a partner, conflicts, the lack of proximity and emotional connection can significantly reduce libido. The sexual function is closely related to the emotional state and quality of interpersonal relationships.
Low self -esteem and self -doubt: Low self -esteem, uncertainty in their attractiveness and sexual viability can lead to a decrease in libido and avoiding sexual contacts.
Previous sexual experience: In the past, traumatic sexual experience can have a long -term negative effect on libido and sexual function.

1.3 lifestyle factors:

Inal meals: Unhealthy nutrition, rich in fats, sugar and processed products, can negatively affect libido and general health. Obesity, which is often a consequence of malnutrition, can lead to a decrease in testosterone level and the development of metabolic syndrome, which also negatively affects the sexual function. A deficiency of important nutrients, such as zinc, vitamin D and B vitamins, can also negatively affect libido.
Lack of physical activity: Regular physical exercises, on the contrary, can increase libido, improve blood circulation and increase testosterone levels. A sedentary lifestyle, on the contrary, can lead to obesity, a decrease in testosterone levels and a deterioration in the general state of health, which negatively affects libido.
Alcohol abuse and smoking: Excessive drinking and smoking have a negative effect on the cardiovascular system, hormonal balance and nervous system, which can lead to a decrease in libido and erectile dysfunction. Smoking worsens blood circulation, including in the genitals, and alcohol in large doses can suppress the production of testosterone.
Lack of sleep: The lack of sleep can lead to an increase in the level of cortisol, a decrease in testosterone levels and a deterioration in overall well -being, which negatively affects libido. It is important to provide enough sleep (7-8 hours a day) to maintain hormonal balance and normal sexual function.
Taking drugs: Some drugs, such as antidepressants, antihypertensive drugs, antihistamines and some others can have a side effect in the form of a decrease in libido. It is important to discuss with the doctor the possible side effects of drugs taken and consider the possibility of replacing the drug, if necessary.

Section 2: Review of the main dietary supplements, positioned to increase male libido

The market presents a wide range of dietary supplements, which are positioned as means to increase male libido. It is important to critically evaluate the composition, efficiency and safety of these additives, based on scientific data.

2.1 Plant extracts:

Ginseng (Panax Ginseng): Ginseng is one of the most popular adaptogens traditionally used to increase energy, reduce stress and improve sexual function. It is believed that ginseng can increase testosterone levels, improve blood circulation and have an antioxidant effect. Some studies show that ginseng can improve erectile function and increase libido in men. However, larger and well -planned studies are needed to confirm these results. It is important to note that ginseng can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants, and can cause side effects, such as insomnia and anxiety.
Tribulus Terrestris Tribulus: Tribulus Terrrestris is a plant that is often used in sports additives to increase testosterone levels and improve sports indicators. However, scientific data on its influence on the level of testosterone and libido are quite contradictory. Some studies show that Tertrix tribulus can improve sexual function and increase libido in men with low testosterone levels, but other studies have not revealed a significant effect. Additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of the tribulus T Tureris in increasing libido.
Maka Peruvian (Lepidium Meyenii): Peruvian poppy is a plant that grows in the Andes, which is traditionally used to increase energy, fertility and libido. Some studies show that Peruvian poppy can improve sexual function and increase libido in men, regardless of testosterone levels. It is believed that Maka Peruvian can have a positive effect on the mood and reduce the alarm, which can also help increase libido. Peruvian poppy is usually considered safe, but some people may experience side effects, such as stomach disorder.
Epimedium (Epimedium sagittatum) (Goryanka): The epimedium, also known as Goryanka, contains Ikariin, a substance that is believed to improve blood circulation and have an effect similar to FDE-5 inhibitors used to treat erectile dysfunction. Some studies show that epimedium can improve erectile function and increase libido in men. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.
Yohimbe (Pausinystalia Johimbe): Yochimba is an African tree containing a yochimbin, a substance that can increase the level of adrenaline and norepinephrine, which can lead to an increase in libido and improving erectile function. Yochimb can be effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, but it can also cause serious side effects, such as anxiety, an increase in blood pressure and a rapid heartbeat. Yohimbe should be used with caution and under the supervision of a doctor.
Muira Puama. Muira Puama is a plant that grows in the Amazon, which is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Some studies show that Muira Puam can improve sexual function and increase libido in men. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

2.2 amino acids:

L-arginine: L-arginine is an amino acid that is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (NO), an important vasodilator that improves blood circulation. Improving blood circulation, especially in the genitals, can help improve erectile function and increase libido. Some studies show that L-arginine can be effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, especially in combination with other additives such as pycnogenol.
L-Citrullin: L-Citrullin is another amino acid that turns into L-Arginine in the body. It is believed that L-Citrullin can be more effective than L-Arginine, in increasing the level of nitrogen oxide in the body. Some studies show that L-Citrullin can improve erectile function and increase libido in men.

2.3 Vitamins and minerals:

Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of testosterone levels. Vitamin D deficiency is often associated with a low level of testosterone and a decrease in libido. Taking vitamin D in the form of an additive can increase the level of testosterone and improve the sexual function in men with vitamin D. deficiency.
Zinc: Zinc is an important mineral for the production of testosterone. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and a decrease in libido. Taking zinc in the form of an additive can increase the level of testosterone and improve sexual function in men with zinc deficiency.
Magnesium: Magnesium plays an important role in the regulation of hormonal balance and nervous system. Magnesium deficiency can lead to stress, anxiety and a decrease in libido. Magnesium intake in the form of an additive can reduce stress, improve sleep and increase libido.
Selenium: Selenium is an important antioxidant that plays a role in the production of testosterone and maintaining spermatozoa health. Selena deficiency can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels and a decrease in libido.

2.4 Other additives:

D-asparaginic acid (DAA): D-asparaginic acid is an amino acid that can stimulate testosterone production. Some studies show that DAA can increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function in men. However, other studies did not reveal a significant effect. Additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of the DAA in increasing libido.
Creatine: Creatine is a popular supplement among athletes used to increase strength and muscle mass. Some studies show that creatine can increase testosterone levels, but the effect of creatine on libido has not been studied enough.

Section 3: Scientific evidence of dietary supplement efficiency to increase libido

It is important to critically evaluate scientific evidence of dietary supplement efficiency to increase libido. Many studies have restrictions such as a small number of participants, the absence of a control group or bias.

3.1 meta analyzes and systematic reviews:

Met-analyzes and systematic reviews are the most reliable sources of information about the effectiveness of dietary supplements, since they combine the results of several studies. However, even meta-analyzes can have restrictions if the studies included in the analysis are of low quality.

3.2 Clinical research:

Clinical studies, especially double blind placebo-controlled studies, are a gold standard for evaluating the effectiveness of dietary supplements. In such studies, the participants are randomly distributed into a group receiving dietary supplements, or into a group that receives a placebo (dummy). Neither participants nor researchers know who receives dietary supplements and who is a placebo. This helps to avoid bias and get objective results.

3.3 observation studies:

Observatory studies do not show a causal relationship between dietary supplements and an increase in libido. They can only identify associations.

3.4 Research restrictions:

It is important to consider restrictions on research when assessing the effectiveness of dietary supplements. Some of the most common restrictions include:

A small number of participants: Studies with a small number of participants may not have sufficient statistical power to identify a significant effect.
Lack of a control group: Studies without a control group do not allow comparing the effect of dietary supplements with a placebo effect or lack of treatment.
Bias: Benefancy can occur if participants or researchers know who receives dietary supplements and who is a placebo.
Poor research methods: Poor research methods, such as improper selection of participants or the lack of standardization of procedures, can lead to false results.
Research financing: Studies financed by dietary supplements can be biased and give positive results, even if dietary supplements are not effective.

Section 4: Bad safety and possible side effects

The safety of dietary supplements is an important aspect that should be taken into account before their use. Many dietary supplements can cause side effects, especially when taking large doses or in combination with other drugs.

4.1 regulation of dietary supplements:

In most countries, dietary supplements are less strict than the regulation of drugs. This means that dietary supplement manufacturers are not required to prove the efficiency and safety of their products before they are putting on the market. As a result, the quality and composition of dietary supplements can vary, and some dietary supplements may contain the ingredients not indicated on the label, or in doses exceeding the permissible ones.

4.2 possible side effects:

Side effects of dietary supplements can be different, depending on the ingredients and dose. Some of the most common side effects include:

Indigestion: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation.
Headache:
Insomnia:
Anxiety:
Improving blood pressure:
Far heartbeat:
Interaction with drugs: Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

4.3 precautions:

Before using dietary supplements, you should consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or take any drugs. It is also important to observe the following precautions:

Choose a dietary supplement from famous and reliable manufacturers:
Read the label carefully and follow the instructions for use:
Do not exceed the recommended dose:
Stop taking dietary supplement if you have any side effects:
Tell your doctor that you are taking dietary supplement:

Section 5: Alternative approaches to increasing male libido

In addition to dietary supplements, there are other, safer and more effective approaches to increasing male libido. These approaches include changes in lifestyle, psychotherapy and drug treatment.

5.1 Changes in lifestyle:

Healthy nutrition: The transition to a healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and low -fat sources of protein, can improve the general health and increase libido. Limiting the consumption of fats, sugar and processed products can also be useful.
Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises, such as walking, running, swimming or strength training, can improve blood circulation, increase testosterone levels and reduce stress. It is recommended to engage in physical exercises for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.
Reducing stress: Stress management with the help of relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing, can reduce the level of cortisol and increase libido. It is also important to find time for classes that bring pleasure and help to relax.
Sufficient sleep: Providing enough sleep (7-8 hours per day) can improve the hormonal balance and increase libido. It is important to create favorable conditions for sleep, such as a dark, quiet and cool room.
Refusal of smoking and abuse of alcohol: Smoking and abuse of alcohol negatively affect the cardiovascular system, hormonal balance and nervous system, which can lead to a decrease in libido.

5.2 Psychotherapy:

Sexy therapy: Sexual therapy can help couples solve problems in relationships, improve communication and increase sexual satisfaction. A sexual therapist can help couples understand the reasons for reducing libido and develop strategies to increase it.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): KPT can help people change the negative thoughts and beliefs that can lead to a decrease in libido. KPT can also help people develop stress and anxiety management skills.

5.3 Drug treatment:

Putting therapy with testosterone (ZTT): ZTT can be prescribed to men with a low level of testosterone to increase testosterone levels and improve libido. ZTT is available in various forms, such as injections, gels, patching and tablets. It is important to discuss the risks and advantages of ZTT with the doctor before starting.
FDE-5 inhibitors: FDE-5 inhibitors, such as Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis) and Wardenafil (Levitra), can improve erectile function, but do not increase the libido directly.
Other drugs: In some cases, other drugs can be prescribed to treat the causes of a decrease in libido, such as depression or anxiety.

Section 6: Recommendations for the choice of dietary supplements and consultations with a doctor

Before using dietary supplements, to increase libido, it is important to carefully weigh all the risks and advantages, as well as consult a doctor.

6.1 Questions for discussion with a doctor:

What are the possible reasons for reducing my libido?
What examinations do I need to go through?
What treatment options are available to me?
Are dietary supplements for me, taking into account my health and drugs taken?
What are the possible side effects of dietary supplements?
What dietary supplements would you recommend to me?
What are alternative approaches to increasing my libido?

6.2 Signs of unscrupulous dietary supplements:

Unreasonable statements about effectiveness:
Lack of information about the composition of the product:
Fuzzy label:
Overstated prices:
Aggressive marketing:
Lack of contact information:

6.3 The importance of an individual approach:

Each person is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It is important to find an individual approach to increasing libido, which takes into account your features, health status and personal preferences.

Section 7: future areas of research in the field of dietary supplements and male libido

Studies in the field of dietary supplements and male libido are ongoing, and future studies can lead to the emergence of new and more effective methods of treatment.

7.1 Study of new plant extracts:

Studies of new plant extracts continue, which can have the properties of aphrodisiacs.

7.2 Study of the influence of dietary supplements on hormonal balance:

Studies of dietary supplement on hormonal balance, in particular, on the level of testosterone and other hormones, which play a role in the regulation of libido.

7.3 Study of the influence of dietary supplements on neurotransmitters:

Studies of the influence of dietary supplements on neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, who play a role in the regulation of mood and sexual excitement, continue.

7.4 Development of personalized approaches to treatment:

In the future, perhaps, personalized approaches to the treatment of a decrease in libido will be developed, which take into account the genetic characteristics, health and lifestyle of each person.

7.5 The importance of conducting high -quality clinical research:

High -quality clinical studies with a large number of participants, a control group and standardized research methods to evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplement in increasing libido are needed.

Section 8: Legal aspects of the sale of dietary supplements in the Russian Federation

The implementation of dietary supplements in the Russian Federation is regulated by the Federal Law of 02.01.2000 N 29-ФЗ “On the quality and safety of food products” and other regulatory legal acts establishing the requirements for the production, circulation and quality control of dietary supplements.

8.1 State registration of dietary supplements:

In accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation, all dietary supplements intended for implementation in the country are subject to state registration in the Federal Service for Supervision of the Protection of Consumer Rights and Human Welfare (Rospotrebnadzor). The state registration procedure includes an examination of the submitted documents, assessment of safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements, as well as entering information about registered dietary supplements in the state register of dietary supplements.

8.2 Requirements for the marking of dietary supplements:

The marking of dietary supplements must comply with the requirements of the technical regulations of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products regarding its marking.” The marking should contain the following information:

Name of dietary supplements
The composition of the product
Information about the manufacturer
Production date and expiration date
Storage conditions
Recommendations for use
Warnings about possible contraindications
Information about state registration

8.3 Requirements for Advertising Bad:

Advertising of dietary supplements must comply with the requirements of the Federal Law of 13.03.2006 N 38-ФЗ “On Advertising”. Advertising of dietary supplements should not contain inaccurate information about the properties and efficiency of dietary supplements, and should also not mislead consumers regarding the fact that dietary supplements are drugs.

8.4 Responsibility for violation of legislation in the field of dietary supplement:

For violation of legislation in the field of dietary supplements, administrative liability is provided in accordance with the Code of the Russian Federation on administrative offenses. In particular, for the implementation of dietary supplements without state registration, violation of the requirements for labeling and advertising of dietary supplements, as well as for the implementation of poor -quality and unsafe dietary supplements, fines are provided.

8.5 Control over the back of the dietary supplement:

Control over the turnover of dietary supplements is carried out by Rospotrebnadzor. Rospotrebnadzor carries out inspections of enterprises engaged in the production, turnover and sale of dietary supplements, and also conducts examination of samples of dietary supplements to determine their compliance with the established requirements.

Section 9: Comparative table of popular dietary supplements to increase libido

Bad	The main active substances	The alleged mechanism of action	Scientific evidence	Possible side effects	Recommendations
Ginseng	Ginzenosides	Increase in level NO, improvement of blood circulation, adaptogenic effect	Some studies show an improvement in erectile function and increased libido	Insomnia, anxiety, headache, interaction with anticoagulants	Apply with caution, start with small doses, do not use for a long time without consulting a doctor
TRIBULUS TERRISTRIST	Saponins	It is assumed to increase the level of testosterone, but scientific data are contradictory	Some studies show an improvement in sexual function, but others have not revealed the effect	Disorder of the stomach, nausea	Additional studies are needed
Maka Peruvian	Amids of fatty acids, glucosinolates	Improving mood, reducing anxiety, possible influence on hormonal balance	Some studies show an improvement in sexual function and increased libido	Indigestion	It is considered relatively safe, but starting with small doses
Epimedium (Goryanka)	Ikarine	FDE-5 inhibiting, Improving blood circulation	Some studies show an improvement in erectile function	Not enough data on side effects	Additional studies are needed
Yohimbe	Yohimbine	Increasing the level of adrenaline and norepinephrine	Can be effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction	Anxiety, increased blood pressure, heart heartbeat	Use with caution and under the supervision of a doctor
L-arginin	L-arginin	Predecessor of nitrogen oxide (No), improvement of blood circulation	Can be effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction	Disorder of the stomach, nausea	Safe in moderate doses
L-Citrullin	L-Citrullin	Turns into L-arginine, improving blood circulation	Can be effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction	Indigestion	Safe in moderate doses
Vitamin D.	Vitamin D.	Regulation of testosterone levels	Can increase testosterone levels in men with vitamin D deficiency	When taking large doses – hypercalcemia	Take an analysis for vitamin D level and accept only with deficiency
Zinc	Zinc	Participates in the production of testosterone	Can increase testosterone levels in men with zinc deficiency	Stomach disorder, nausea, reduction of copper levels	Take an analysis for zinc level and accept only with deficiency

Note: This table is a generalized information and is not a replacement for a consultation with a doctor. Before using any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor to assess risks and advantages.

Section 10: Case Stadiz (examples from practice)

Case Stadi 1: A young man with chronic stress and a decrease in libido

Patient: Alexey, 28 years old, manager in the IT company.
Complaints: Libido decrease, fatigue, irritability, sleep problems.
Anamnesis: High level of stress at work, irregular sleep schedule, malnutrition.
Examination: The level of testosterone is within normal limits, but the level of cortisol is increased.
Treatment: Changes in lifestyle (regular physical exercises, healthy nutrition, relaxation technique) are recommended. Magnesium is recommended as an additional measure to reduce stress.
Result: After 3 months, a significant increase in libido, a decrease in fatigue and irritability, and improving sleep were noted.

Case Stadi 2: A man with age-related hypogonadism

Patient: Sergey, 55 years old, pensioner.
Complaints: Libido decrease, erectile dysfunction, decrease in muscle mass, an increase in adipose tissue.
Anamnesis: Age -related changes, lack of physical activity.
Examination: The level of testosterone is significantly reduced.
Treatment: Recommended replacement therapy with testosterone (ZTT) under the supervision of a doctor.
Result: After 6 months, a significant increase in libido, an improvement in erectile function, an increase in muscle mass, and a decrease in adipose tissue were noted.

Case Stadi 3: A patient with vitamin D deficiency and a decrease in libido

Patient: Dmitry, 40 years old, driver.
Complaints: Decreased libido, fatigue, weakness.
Anamnesis: It spends little time in the sun, malnutrition.
Examination: The level of vitamin D is significantly reduced.
Treatment: The intake of vitamin D is recommended in the form of an additive under the supervision of a doctor.
Result: After 2 months, an increase in libido, a decrease in fatigue and weakness was noted.

Important: These cases are presented for introductory purposes and are not a guide to action. Before starting treatment, you need to consult a doctor.

Section 11: List of literature

Andreeva E.N. Age androgenic deficiency in men. Consilium Medicum. 2008; 10 (7): 22-27.
Dedov I.I., Melnichenko G.A. Endocrine diseases. Guide for doctors. M.: Medicine; 2000.
Zilov A.V., Astakhova A.V., Yagudaev D.M. Erectile dysfunction: modern methods of diagnosis and treatment. Consilium Medicum. 2007; 9 (8): 34-39.
Melnyk MO, Marcone MF. Aphrodisiacs from plant and animal sources–a review. Food Res Int. 2011 Sep;44(7):1947-1960.
Shin BC, Lee MS, Yang EJ, Lim HS, Ernst E. Maca (L. meyenii) for sexual dysfunction: a systematic review. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2010 Aug 18;10:44.
Gonzales GF, Cordova A, Gonzales C, Chung A, Vega K, Villena A. Lepidium Meyen (Maca): A Plant From The Highlands Of Peru–From Tradition to Science. j ethnopharmacol. 2001 Dec;79(1):87-9
Qureshi A, Naughton DP, Petroczi A. A systematic review on the herbal extract Tribulus terrestris and the roots of its putative aphrodisiac and performance enhancing effect. J Diet Suppl. 2014;11(1):64-79.
Saenz de Tejada I, Angulo J, Cellek S, Gonzalez J, de Pam