Eating watermelon could help improve men’s sexual health, according to new research published in Current Research in Food Science.
Scientists found that the fruit may help reverse erectile dysfunction and improve fertility due to its high antioxidant content.
Dr Haitham Al-Madhagi from Thamar University suggested that watermelon works in a similar way to Viagra.
It helps relax blood vessels by increasing nitric oxide production, which supports blood flow.
This could be welcome news for many men. Erectile dysfunction is common and affects about half of men over 40. While it is not always long-term, it can impact quality of life.
- Males with higher sex drive live longer than men with lower libido
- Testosterone replacement therapy can improve blood glucose levels in men with type 2 diabetes
- Fertility problems higher amongst women with bigger waist circumference
The study noted that watermelon has been used both as a food and a natural remedy throughout history.
Researchers added that its antioxidants may also improve sperm quality and testicle function.
In a separate study, researchers from Complutense University of Madrid explored how vitamin D levels affect erectile function.
They found that men with vitamin D deficiency had reduced function in the corpora cavernosa, the tissue that helps maintain erections.
They also discovered that these men had lower levels of a protein that helps repair tissue.
In follow-up tests with rats, the team found that those lacking vitamin D responded less effectively to Viagra compared to those with normal vitamin D levels.
Vitamin D is essential for bone health and produced when skin is exposed to sunlight.
In the UK, people often do not get enough during the winter.
- Adopting a Mediterranean diet improves fertility, evidence suggests
- Intermittent fasting can cause fertility problems, health experts say
- New test identifies functional sperm in men with fertility problems
Foods like salmon, mackerel and eggs can help, and supplements are recommended during colder months.
Vitamin D deficiency is more common among people with darker skin and those who are overweight or have conditions like diabetes. It has been linked to reduced libido and lower response to erectile dysfunction treatment.
Experts say that adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve erectile dysfunction.
This includes eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and managing stress.
While vitamin D is important, taking too much can cause calcium to build up in the body and damage the kidneys and heart.
NHS guidance recommends taking supplements during autumn and winter but avoiding excessive doses.
