Nuts can improve sexual function in men: What to eat and how much

Eating the right foods really matters. The role of a healthy diet in overall health and wellness is crucial. The same is true for sexual health. Sometimes the right foods may prove more effective than supplements and medications. Millions of men across the world struggle with erectile dysfunction and other sexual function concerns. Would you believe that a simple addition to your diet can make all the difference? Yes, that’s true.

A study by international researchers, published in the journal Nutrients, found that regular consumption of nuts can improve sexual function in men.

Nuts linked with improved sexual function

Erectile and sexual dysfunction affect 2% of men under the age of 40 years, around 52% of men aged 40 to 70 years, and more than 85% of men over 80. Factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a lack of physical exercise, stress and an unhealthy diet are linked to these sexual dysfunctions.

Researchers from the Human Nutrition Unit of the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (Tarragona, Spain) and the Pere Virgili Health Research Institute (IISPV) have found that daily intake of nuts improves sexual function in men. This is the first nutritional intervention study conducted on healthy participants of reproductive age to understand whether regular consumption of nuts has any effect on sexual function.

What nuts to eat and how often?

In their previous study, the same researchers found that certain nuts, such as walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds, improved sperm quality in men. The findings were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. However, the study did not demonstrate positive effects of these nuts on sexual function.

To understand the effect of these nuts on sexual function in men, the researchers conducted another study. It included 83 individuals who were following a western diet (poor in fruit and vegetables and rich in animal fats). The participants were then split into two groups: the first group continued to follow their normal western diet over 14 weeks, while the other complemented their diet with a daily intake of 60 grams of walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds.

The researchers asked the participants to complete an internationally validated questionnaire known as the IIEF-15, containing 15 questions on sexual function. They found that adding walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds to an unhealthy western diet can improve sexual desire and orgasm quality. They added that further research is required to confirm these results and to determine how these benefits arise.

While eating a clean, nutritious and well-balanced diet is crucial, this study suggests that a simple addition of 60 grams of walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds may improve sexual function in men.

Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment, or before changing your diet or supplement regimen.