Amino acids have become the subject of intense scientific scrutiny over the past few decades for their role in male health. Amino acids are the building blocks used to make up proteins, and men can increase amino acids in their bodies through taking supplements, improving diet to include more natural produce and eating less fat and by the regular use of a male health crème. Most amino acids tend to have very scientific-sounding names, which can be a turn-off o those with no interest in science but in terms of men’s health there are several amino acids that men should know about: especially those which have a proven effect on male sexual health and function.

L-Arginine

L-Arginine is an important essential amino acid for penile health and sexual function. Following ingestion the body takes L-arginine through a multi-step process during which it is used as an ingredient for nitric oxide, an enzyme with vital functions for cardiovascular health, nervous system balance and erectile functioning. When nitric oxide is increased, blood vessels dilate and allow increased blood flow throughout the body. During erection this is exactly the same process which to make the penis stiffen and grow hard.

In cases of cardiovascular disease and/or poor nutrition, men may not be getting enough of this important L-arginine to produce nitric oxide. During one double-blind placebo-controlled study published in BJU International, men suffering from erectile dysfunction took 5g of L-arginine daily for a period of 6-weeks. At the end of the trial, men with low levels of nitric oxide experienced significant improvement in their symptoms. Other studies have shown the effects of L-arginine supplementation to increase markedly when combined with pycnogenol extract.

L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine has many uses when taken as a supplement. Popular amongst body builders, L-carnitine improves fat burning and leads to improved weight loss and muscle gain. This amino acid also supports oxygenation of the entire body, improves fertility and increases muscle mass by elevating testosterone levels. However according to one recent study, the effects of L-carnitine may be in excess of what is realistically achievable through stimulating testosterone production.

Scientists in Italy supplied 120 men with L-carnitine, testosterone or placebo for 6-months, in order to see the effects the therapies would have on symptoms of erectile function, mood, fatigue and testosterone levels. While both testosterone and L-carnitine improved fatigue and mood scores, L-carnitine was significantly more effective in improving symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Many of the positive effects of L-carnitine may be attributed to increased testosterone levels.

L-Tyrosine

L-Tyrosine is an important amino acid for the production of the thyroid hormone and dopamine. A high percentage of males who suffer from an underactive thyroid experience sexual problems, as the thyroid hormone is so important for energy, mood, metabolism, weight control and circulation and integral to healthy sexual functioning. L-Tyrosine significantly increases circulating thyroid hormone levels and is often recommended as a nutritional therapy for men with underactive thyroid, or Hashimoto's Disease.

Dopamine is a powerful neurotransmitter in charge of relaxation, mood, appetite, libido and desire. A study by the University of Amsterdam, Holland found that increasing dopamine levels was an effective way to increase sexual desire, with the treatment being more pronounced in men than women. Using L-tyrosine is a natural and safe way to improve dopamine levels via the diet.

Penis Health Crèmes

Amino acids are not always well-absorbed by the human digestive tract. In order to bypass this problem, it is possible to absorb amino acids by using health crèmes. Penis health crèmes are specifically formulated for the continuing health and vitality of the penis and reproductive system. Specialist formulas (most professionals recommend Man1Man Oil) contain L-arginine, L-carnitine, vitamin C, E, A, and alpha lipoic acid. This blend supports male hormone levels, nerve sensitivity, circulation and erectile function. Use regularly to increase nitric oxide levels and enhance the look and feel of the penis.