Is Milk Good For Erectile Dysfunction

Have you ever noticed in Bollywood or South Asian movies how the bride often brings a glass of milk to the groom on their wedding night? Does milk really have something to do with sexual performance?
If you are curious to know whether adding milk to your diet can help cure erectile dysfunction, you are not alone. The short answer is no, milk is not a cure for erectile dysfunction. Milk is a rich source of nutrients that promote overall wellness. All these nutrients can enhance sexual health. But to your surprise, milk also comes with some fats and hormones, which can have negative effects on erections.
Let us now dive into knowing the myths, facts, and scientific insights about how milk is indirectly related to sexual health and performance.

Indirect Benefits Of Milk For Erectile Dysfunction

Milk is a rich source of some essential minerals [1] and proteins [2] that help in general physical wellness and good cardiovascular health. These components help in forming the foundation of good sexual health.

• Vital nutrients: Nutrients like zinc and magnesium are active components of milk. Both of these are important  for sexual health. It has been found that regular intake of both zinc and magnesium has been associated with lower chances of developing ED [1], in older men.
• Better cardiovascular health: Cardiovascular diseases are one of the most common causes of ED. Proteins like casein and whey present in milk can promote better cardiovascular health and in turn healthy erections.[2]
• Improved fertility: It has been noticed that low- fat milk has been associated with improved sperm quality in men. In a study that evaluated 155 men, it was concluded that 33 percent of men who took low fat dairy noticed higher sperm concentration. [3]

Is milk good for erectile dysfunction?

Though milk is always considered as a nutritional drink to rely on, it is also important to know about the risks that come with dairy products. Milk can contribute to erectile dysfunction in a way you never knew existed. Let us have a look at them.

• Saturated fats and heart problems: Saturated fats like cheese and milk are rich in full fat dairy, can negatively affect heart health and cause various cardiovascular diseases [3]. Full fat dairy products are also linked with low sperm quality [3]  and difficulty in erections.
• Prostate concerns: Prostate gland plays an important part in the sexual health of men. It is responsible for producing semen, transporting sperm during the orgasm. [4] It has been noticed that men with higher consumption of milk are at risk of prostate cancer [3] which can badly affect sexual health and erections.

Hormonal disturbances: Milk contains hormones like estrogens, progesterones, testosterone in trace amounts. High consumption of milk can create disturbances in the regular levels of hormones. Disturbances in male hormones can lead to ED [1].

Controlling Not Cutting Milk Is The Solution

After reading the mixed views on milk, you might be thinking about what is the solution? If milk is not a friend, it is not an enemy either. The short answer is instead of cutting milk from your diet, keep it in moderation. Low fat or skim milk when taken as a part of a balanced diet is considered safe. In the end, a healthy and balanced diet is what matters. If your diet and lifestyle is healthy, adding milk in moderation shouldn’t make a big difference.

There is no harm in taking milk for sexual health, as long as you eat a balanced diet. Overconsumption of full-fat dairy can lead to difficulties with heart health and hormones. If milk is consumed in moderation, it can provide important nutrients for good overall physical and sexual health.