Beetroot for Better Erections: Myth or Science?

Beets for erectile dysfunction are often suggested as a natural remedy for erectile dysfunction. Many men have reported benefits when they added beets to their diet. This is because they are high in nitrates, which the body turns into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide relaxes and widens blood vessels, improving blood flow to the penis, which is important for achieving and maintaining erections. However, there is no direct scientific proof that beets can cure ED. Beets are generally safe and can support sexual health naturally, but they should not replace medical treatment. In this article, you will learn how beets may help with ED, their benefits, and the risk of overconsuming them.

Connection Between Beets and Erectile Dysfunction

Beetroot and erectile dysfunction have been linked due to the nutritional profile of beetroot. Beets are a rich source of nitrates, folate, vitamin C, iron, copper, polyphenols, and betalains.

Ingredients

Role in sexual function

Nitrates

Blood vessels relaxation which improve erections [1]

Folate

Promotes good heart function for better sexual function [2]

Vitamin C

Protect blood vessel from stress [3]

Iron and Copper

Help in oxygen transportation across body and improve stamina [4]

Polyphenols and Betalains

Reduce inflammation and support vascular health [5]

  All of these nutrients play an important role in a person's overall health and sexual well-being. But the main ingredient in beets, which supports sexual health, is nitrates.

How Does Beetroot Help Erectile Dysfunction?

Nitric Oxide Production

Good erections need better blood flow. Beets contain nitrates, which get converted into nitric oxide. This nitric oxide helps widen the blood vessels (vasodilation) and improve circulation. Research done in 2022 [6] highlighted that nitric oxide helps in relaxing the blood vessels and improving blood flow. When this process doesn’t work properly, it can lead to high blood pressure and erectile dysfunction. This shows how nitric oxide is linked to vascular health and men’s sexual function.

Better Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the common causes of erectile dysfunction. Beetroot can reduce blood pressure and help in lowering the risk of erectile dysfunction. Studies [7] show that beet supplementation improved endothelial function (the ability of blood vessels to dilate) and reduced blood pressure in people with risk factors. This suggests that beetroot can benefit men with mild to moderate ED.

Better Energy and Stamina

Lack of energy and stamina can also make a person lose interest in sexual activity. Beetroot can help in increasing oxygen supply in muscles. This can help a person last longer in the bedroom. A 2009 [8] study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology showed that men who consumed beet juice for six days required less oxygen during exercise, showed better athletic performance and endurance in more intense activity. This improved stamina may also help in better sexual performance.

Promote Hormonal Balance

Beetroot supplementation promotes nitric oxide. This nitric oxide influences hormone levels. Some research suggests [9] that nitric oxide from beetroot in moderate amounts may also help in the production of testosterone. Testosterone helps in better sexual desire and erectile function.

Improves Memory and Mood

Erectile dysfunction is not always caused by physical factors, but some psychological factors can also play a role in causing ED. A 2011 study [10] done on nitric oxide found that adults who drank beet juice had increased blood flow to the brain. This helped in better decision-making and cognitive brain function. This may indirectly support sexual health by improving mood and focus.

How To Consume Beets For Erectile Dysfunction?

Beetroot offers multiple options when it comes to consuming it. To maximize the beetroot, you can add it to your diet in various forms.

1. Raw in salads: Raw beets can be enjoyed in the form of cut slices for salads or in wraps and sandwiches.
2. Beet juice and smoothies: Beets can be consumed in the form of beet juices and smoothies mixed with other fruits like apples, berries, and nuts. A lot of athletes prefer this form of beets before heavy workouts.
3. Soups: Boiled beets or cooked beetroots can also be used in vegetable soups for flavor and color.
4. Chips: Beet chips in the form of thin, crunchy slices can be consumed in the form of snacks.
5. Beetroot cakes: Grated beetroots can be added to cakes, pastries, brownies, and muffins for natural sweetness, color, and flavor.

Potential Risks and Considerations of Beet Supplements

Beets are generally safe for most people, but overconsuming them isn’t wise. They can act as a supportive addition to a balanced diet. But they cannot be considered as a sole treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Beeturia

In some people, overconsumption of beets and beetroot juice may lead their urine and stools to appear slightly reddish or pink. This condition is called beeturia.

Kidney stones:

Beetroots contain some compounds like oxalates, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones in some people. If a person has a history of kidney stones, it is better to take a doctor’s advice before taking any beetroot supplements or beetroot powder.

Digestive problems

Drinking too much beetroot juice on an empty stomach can cause bloating, stomach cramps, and diarrhea in some people. So, always start with small amounts.

Low blood pressure:

Nitrates present in beets help in reducing high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. Though it is helpful for people with high blood pressure, it may create problems if someone already has low blood pressure and is on medications for hypertension [11].

Drug interactions

Since beets can lower blood pressure and affect circulation, they may interact with certain heart or blood pressure medications. People on these drugs should be cautious and seek medical guidance before adding large amounts of beets or beet supplements to their diet.

Conclusion

Beetroot and erectile dysfunction are closely linked because of the way beets support blood flow and overall health. The high nitrate content in beetroot helps the body to produce more nitric oxide, which widens blood vessels and improves circulation. Better circulation is important for stronger and lasting erections. Beetroot also promotes good heart health, hormonal balance, and better stamina and boosts mood and memory. Beetroot is not a complete treatment for erectile dysfunction, but it can be a natural and safe food to include in your daily meals. You can enjoy beets in salads, beetroot juices, soups, or even baked dishes. It should always be combined with lifestyle changes like physical activity, a balanced diet, stress management, and medical treatment.

Nitric oxide from beetroot nitrates helps in vasodilation, which can support erections, but ED is multifactorial and requires comprehensive management.