الفهرس | Only 14 pages are availabe for public view |
Abstract The research presented suggests that many common mechanisms underlie both CVD and ED, and that VDD is closely associated with both disorders. We hypothesize that optimizing serum vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure or vitamin D supplementation helps delay the onset of ED. Coupled with positive changes in lifestyle, such optimization may restore normal sexual function to some men. This hypothesis should be tested through observational and intervention studies. If proven by further research, such therapy would offer an alternative or complement to phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, which, though exceptionally effective and a first choice for treatment, have been associated with many negative side effects,147 and which, because of their efficacy in producing erections, may cause men with ED to ignore the possibility they might have occult underlying CVD. Vitamin D and L-arginine deficiency might be associated with male ED separately or equally, especially in individuals with underlying endothelial dysfunction. Moreover, the blood concentrations of vitamin D and L-arginine should be analyzed in men with symptoms of ED. However, further studies are needed to substantiate the role of hypovitaminosis D and L-arginine deficiency in male ED. |