Problems with erectile function can be overwhelming because it’s easy to think other men don’t experience these issues.
The reality is that most men deal with erectile dysfunction (ED) for one reason or another.
The good news is that you can naturally improve ED.
Some studies show that beta-sitosterol can help manage erectile dysfunction.
How does it work? Read on to learn more.
What is beta-sitosterol?
Beta-sitosterol is one of the plant sterols, i.e., phytosterols. Phytosterol is a compound similar to cholesterol.
There are over 250 phytosterols, and they’re known for improving cardiovascular health. Beta-sitosterol appears as a white, waxy powder with a specific odor.
Food sources of beta-sitosterol include wheat germ, rice bran, peanuts, corn oils, and soybean. Various plants and herbs contain beta-sitosterol.
Good examples are rye grass pollen, saw palmetto, stinging nettle, and pygeum. The easiest way to obtain beta-sitosterol is through dietary supplements.
What does beta-sitosterol do for men?
Men can benefit from beta-sitosterol in several ways. For instance, this compound can support the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate. This effect is scientifically confirmed.
One review showed that supplementation with beta-sitosterol successfully improved urinary symptoms and flow measures in men with BPH. The effects were without complications meaning beta-sitosterol is well-tolerated (1).
Beta-sitosterol can also decrease swelling in the prostate gland and other tissues. In one study, beta-sitosterol suppressed prostate cell proliferation (2). This means the compound could have a role in managing (delaying progression) or preventing prostate cancer.
More research on beta-sitosterol is necessary, but current evidence confirms the effectiveness of this compound in preventing and managing problems affecting the prostate gland.
This is particularly important if we consider that most men develop some prostate condition at some point in their lives.
Can beta-sitosterol help erectile dysfunction?
Beta-sitosterol can help men with erectile dysfunction, but this subject requires extensive research.
While studies focusing specifically on beta-sitosterol in the management of erectile dysfunction are lacking, those revolving around plants that contain this compound show promising results. A good example is saw palmetto.
Not only is saw palmetto among the most significant plants for prostate health, but it can also improve erectile function.
One study showed that saw palmetto can enhance erectile response meaning it can help prevent or treat ED (3).
One animal study showed that beta-sitosterol could increase penile erection and ejaculation latency in subjects (4).
As seen above, beta-sitosterol holds significant potential in improving the erectile function of men with ED.
While more studies are necessary, available evidence confirms these effects, particularly when you bear in mind that compounds that contain beta-sitosterol are used in many supplements for male sexual health and function.
How beta-sitosterol helps erectile dysfunction
Beta-sitosterol works through several mechanisms of action to prevent or manage erectile dysfunction.
Like other compounds, it can improve blood flow to the penile area. For example, saw palmetto inhibits phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) activity and increases nitric oxide expression.
You see, PDE-5 is an enzyme that takes part in the regulation of smooth muscle contraction and relaxation through cGMP-signaling pathways. Compounds known as PDE-5 inhibitors enhance the effects of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide is a vasodilator that relaxes smooth muscles and blood vessels to increase blood flow to the penis. As a result, you get an erection.
Evidence shows beta-sitosterol also works as an antioxidant (5). The main function of antioxidants is to neutralize free radicals and prevent or manage oxidative stress and damage they would cause.
Oxidative stress plays an important role in the progression of ED (6). By acting as an antioxidant, beta-sitosterol could indirectly improve erectile function.
Yet another mechanism of action through which beta-sitosterol helps ED is testosterone balance. Low testosterone levels are associated with a wide range of symptoms, and erectile dysfunction is among them (7).
Supplementation with beta-sitosterol can inhibit the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By inhibiting the activity of this enzyme, beta-sitosterol supports healthy testosterone levels in the body.
Beta-sitosterol exhibits anti-inflammatory effects as well (8). This matters because increased inflammation is associated with the presence and severity of erectile dysfunction.
The potential of beta-sitosterol to reduce inflammation can also lead to stronger and harder erections.
As seen above, beta-sitosterol can improve erectile function in several ways. To sum up, potential mechanisms of action include improved blood flow, testosterone balance, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.
4 health benefits of beta-sitosterol
The benefits of beta-sitosterol extend beyond BPH management and stronger erections. The most significant health benefits of this plant sterol are listed below.
1) Stronger immunity
A study from the International Immunopharmacology found that beta-sitosterol enhances the action of vitamin D on immune function. Scientists concluded that beta-sitosterol could be particularly beneficial to individuals deficient in Vitamin D and those with autoimmune diseases (9).
An unhealthy lifestyle is one of the major enemies of immune system defenses. Strive to include more beta-sitosterol sources in your diet or give supplements a try.
At the same time, make healthy lifestyle adjustments such as regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and a well-balanced diet.
2) Lowering LDL cholesterol
High LDL or bad cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and events.
Beta-sitosterol can effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels without negatively affecting HDL or good cholesterol. It works by limiting the amount of cholesterol able to enter your body.
Beta-sitosterol can also protect you from heart disease through reduced LDL cholesterol levels. Keep in mind you shouldn’t rely on beta-sitosterol alone to do all the work. Normal cholesterol levels and optimal cardiovascular health require a healthy lifestyle too.
3) Improved insulin sensitivity
The term insulin sensitivity refers to how sensitive the cells in the body are in response to insulin. Healthy insulin sensitivity enables cells to utilize blood glucose more effectively, thus decreasing blood sugar levels.
Some people have weak insulin sensitivity, i.e., they get into a state of insulin resistance which leads to type 2 diabetes.
Evidence shows that supplementation with beta-sitosterol can reduce insulin resistance and improve insulin sensitivity. For that reason, beta-sitosterol could contribute to the management of diabetes mellitus (10).
A proactive approach to the management of diabetes is crucial for the prevention of complications. After all, erectile dysfunction is common in men with type 2 diabetes. This metabolic condition can lead to ED by damaging nerves and blood vessels.
Proper blood sugar management can prevent that damage and thereby reduce the risk of ED in men with diabetes.
4) Hair loss prevention
Male pattern baldness is a common problem for men around the globe. It is related to genes and hormone levels.
You’re more likely to deal with hair loss if testosterone levels are low. Although losing hair isn’t dangerous, most men feel insecure about it.
Beta-sitosterol could help you out. This compound can prevent hair loss by inhibiting androgen DHT production.
Androgen DHT is also responsible for male pattern baldness. As beta-sitosterol inhibits its production, it can prevent or delay hair loss. As a result, you are bound to feel more confident.
How long does it take beta-sitosterol to work?
How long it takes beta-sitosterol to work depends on several factors. These include the severity of the problem, quality of supplements, overall health, and lifestyle, just to name a few.
Two people may not experience effects within the same timeframe. Generally speaking, lower urinary tract symptoms in men with enlarged prostate tend to improve four to six weeks of treatment with beta-sitosterol. Some men may need to take it for three months, others shorter or longer.
When it comes to erectile dysfunction, it may take three to four months of regular supplementation to get the best results.
Keep in mind beta-sitosterol isn’t the same as sildenafil (Viagra) and other pills. These pills are specifically formulated to produce erection upon sexual stimulation. They don’t fix the root cause of the erectile problems.
On the flip side, natural compounds such as beta-sitosterol act on underlying causes of sexual dysfunction.
Before you start taking beta-sitosterol, make sure to consult a healthcare provider. Discussing the subject with a doctor is particularly important for men who also take medications to manage other health problems. It’s useful to mention, however, that beta-sitosterol is generally safe and well-tolerated.
To get the most from beta-sitosterol and speed up its effects, adopt healthy lifestyle measures.
Conclusion
Beta-sitosterol is a plant compound with outstanding health potential. Although it is well-known for its beneficial effects on the management of enlarged prostate, beta-sitosterol can do a lot more than that.
Supplementation with beta-sitosterol can also help men with erectile dysfunction. In managing ED, beta-sitosterol works through several mechanisms, such as hormone balance, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and positive effects on nitric oxide.
Strive to include more beta-sitosterol into your lifestyle. Most men find dietary supplements more practical. Remember, management and prevention of ED also require a healthy lifestyle.
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