In 2018, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published the results of the FERTINUTS study, which showed that adding nuts to your diet could significantly improve total sperm count and the vitality, motility, and morphology of the sperm. A follow-up report published in the journal Nutrients in 2019 showed that eating nuts could also increase erectile function and sexual desire.
According to Healthline, nuts are a great source of arginine, which is an amino acid that plays a key role in the production of nitric oxide. As detailed in a 2006 study from the Journal of Clinical Hypertension, this compound helps relax blood vessels, which promotes increased blood flow to the genital area and is crucial for erectile function. However, certain types of nuts stand out as particularly beneficial for ED due to their unique nutritional profiles. For instance, a 2010 report published in Nutrients showed that nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, pistachios, and Brazil nuts are packed with various nutrients that support vascular health and blood flow, which are essential for achieving and maintaining an erection.
Walnuts are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to improved blood circulation. They also have antioxidants that help protect blood vessel walls, enhancing their ability to relax and facilitate blood flow. Brazil nuts are a powerhouse of selenium, which plays a role in testosterone production and sperm quality, which can indirectly influence erectile function.