Erectile Function
Natural support for healthy erectile function and blood flow.
TL;DR
Erectile function reflects vascular health — exercise, weight, sleep, and cardiovascular risk control are foundational. Citrulline has the best supplement evidence; PDE5 inhibitors remain the proven pharmacotherapy.
Why It Matters
Erectile dysfunction is often an early marker of endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Nitric oxide availability is central: citrulline (converted to arginine) improved erection hardness in a controlled trial, and combination with PDE5 inhibitors has supportive data. New ED warrants cardiovascular risk assessment, not just symptom treatment.
How to Measure
IIEF-5 questionnaire monthly; track morning erection frequency as a vascular proxy.
Biomarkers
Optimization Protocol
Citrulline 1.5–3 g/day (3 g improved hardness scores versus placebo). Address cardiovascular fundamentals: exercise, weight, smoking cessation, alcohol moderation. If low testosterone is suspected, test morning total T. Persistent ED: see a physician — PDE5 inhibitors are first-line, and ED is a cardiovascular screening opportunity.
Lifestyle Levers
- •Aerobic plus resistance exercise
- •Weight management
- •Smoking cessation
- •Alcohol moderation
- •Sleep quality (apnea screening if snoring)
Supporting Supplements
L-Citrulline
Moderate evidence for mild ED; not a replacement for PDE5 inhibitors in significant dysfunction.
Tongkat Ali
Interesting for libido and stress; erectile-specific evidence is insufficient.
L-Arginine
Citrulline raises arginine levels more effectively than arginine itself — prefer citrulline.
Supporting Research
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ED just part of aging?
Do testosterone boosters work for ED?
Typical Timeframe
4–8 weeks for citrulline; vascular improvements over months.
Research Summary
My Notes
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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.