Apple Juice for Sexual Health: Myth or Science? Here’s the Truth

Apple juice might conjure up memories of childhood school lunches or apple picking. But could this sweet fruit drink also have sexual health benefits? 

What is apple juice good for sexually? Here’s the short answer: it won’t magically solve intimacy problems. But it can be a nutritious addition to your diet, ultimately benefitting your overall health. 

Keep reading to learn what the research says about the benefits of apple juice for your sex life.

Check the label on your apple juice, and you’ll probably spot ingredients like:

• Water

• Apple juice concentrate

• Ascorbic acid (AKA vitamin C)

Some brands also contain natural or artificial flavors and sugars. 

For a healthier choice, stick to 100% apple juice with no added junk. Apple juice is a decent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can support overall wellness as part of a healthy diet, but drinking a cup per day doesn’t even get you close to the recommended daily levels of certain vitamins and minerals.

One 2014 study found that women who ate (not drank!) an apple a day reported better overall sex lives — specifically, better vaginal lubrication and general sexual function. 

Researchers aren’t sure why but it might have something to do with the nutrients in apples. Or, it might be that eating an apple a day indicates a well-balanced diet and overall good health, including sexual health.

A heads up: The study focused on whole apples (not juice) and women (not men). 

Here's a breakdown of what makes apple juice nutritionally valuable and how it may benefit your sex life.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin and a powerful antioxidant that protects your cells from free radicals and oxidative stress — factors that can affect your sexual function over time. 

Studies link apple consumption to reduced oxidative stress.

Plus, vitamin C is also a key player in collagen production, a structural protein that maintains healthy blood vessels and circulation — both crucial for heart health and erectile function. 

Potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral for heart health. It helps balance sodium and regulate blood pressure, preventing high blood pressure and ensuring healthy blood flow throughout your body. The recommended daily potassium intake for an average adult man is 3,400 milligrams. A cup of apple juice provides only 5 percent of this amount.

The best way to get potassium is through your diet, and apple juice is just a small part of that. Keep in mind, overdoing it on supplements can have negative effects.

Polyphenols

Polyphenols (AKA plant compounds) can support nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide is a key factor in healthy circulation and blood vessel health. Good circulation supports both sexual health and cardiovascular health. 

Most of these compounds are concentrated in the peel, but some of the apple’s flesh still makes it into the juice during the juicing process. Eating an apple instead of drinking apple juice probably gives you a higher amount of polyphenols. And cloudy juice with pulp contains more polyphenols than clear, filtered apple juice.

So, don’t count on a single glass of apple juice to make a major difference. 

Natural sugars

Pure apple juice contains naturally occurring sugars like fructose and glucose.

While too much sugar can lead to crashes, sipping on apple juice occasionally — especially during physical activity — can give you a boost of energy.  

Just keep in mind that apple juice doesn’t contain fiber, so that burst of energy might fade fast. Pair apple juice with a snack like whole-grain crackers and peanut butter to keep you going longer.  

Apple juice is not a magic potion for the bedroom, but turns out this drink could have a few benefits when it comes to supporting your sex life. 

Let’s dig into four ways apple juice might benefit you sexually.. 

1. It May Help Support Healthy Circulation

Good blood flow powers your workouts and fuels your performance — including in the bedroom.

Apple juice contains polyphenols that can help relax and widen blood vessels. One study found that moderate consumption of apple juice has beneficial effects on cardiovascular disease risk. Good cardiovascular health is important for erections too, ensuring that blood flows to penile tissues.

Simply put: the healthier your circulation, the better your erections.

2. It May Boost Energy and Stamina 

Need an energy boost without the caffeine crash? Ditch the espresso or energy drink and grab an apple juice from your fridge. 

Because it’s a concentrated source of natural sugars, apple juice can provide a quick burst of energy to help prevent you from running out of steam during sex.

3. It Offers Antioxidant Support

Oxidative stress plays a role in erectile dysfunction (ED). 

You can’t always avoid oxidative stress, but fueling up on antioxidant-rich food and drink can help limit its effects.

And while apple juice won’t give you superpowers, a glass here and there — along with plenty of fruits and veggies, and maybe an apple from time to time — might help you feel more like your best self. 

4. It Helps You Stay Hydrated

No one wants to feel dehydrated or crampy during sex. Thanks to its high water content, apple juice can be a refreshing way to stay hydrated. 

Pro tip: Don’t replace your regular water intake with apple juice. Water is best for keeping your fluid levels in check.

Do other fruit juices have sexual health benefits? Let’s break it down:

• Pomegranate juice. It’s packed with antioxidants and studies suggest it may improve blood flow and reduce arterial stiffness, supporting erectile function and overall sexual health. 

• Watermelon juice. It contains a compound called citrulline, which your body converts into the amino acid arginine, boosting nitric oxide production. This helps relax your blood vessels, improving circulation and potentially benefiting sexual performance. 

• Beet juice. High in nitrates, it promotes nitric oxide production, supporting blood flow and vascular health. But, some research suggests high nitrate intake may have negative side effects — so sip in moderation!

It’s important to remember that pure fruit juices like apple juice contain many nutrients but they’re not a substitute for whole foods, which have the added benefit of containing fiber. Along with other benefits, fiber can help you feel fuller for longer. 

One study tested the effects of whole apples, applesauce, and apple juice on hunger by giving adults equal calorie portions. Whole apples were the most satisfying, while juice — even with added fiber — was the least filling.

Plus, adding fruit juice to your diet won’t address underlying issues like low libido, erectile dysfunction, delayed ejaculation, or premature ejaculation. 

If you’re having sexual function issues, your best bet is to seek personalized medical advice and adopt healthy habits like regular exercise. 

Apple juice is sweet, delicious, and contains compounds that can theoretically help support your overall health and sexual function. But it’s not a cure for sexual health issues, and relying solely on apple juice as a source of nutrients is not a healthy choice.

Let’s recap what we know about the sexual benefits of apple juice:

• It may help boost your energy levels. The natural sugars in apple juice promote a spike in blood sugar improving your stamina in bed. Plus, nutrients in apple juice may help support blood flow, crucial for healthy erections.

• Apple juice isn’t the new water. Apple juice can be hydrating, but it’s not a replacement for plain water. 

• Opt for whole fruit whenever possible. Apple juice tastes good and contains nutrients, but whole apples are nutritionally superior. You’ll get the most sexual health benefits by eating a variety of colorful fruits and veggies. 

Still worried about sexual function issues like low sex drive, ED, or premature ejaculation? A licensed healthcare professional can help you identify the underlying cause and provide personalized guidance.

Get started by exploring our sexual health resources.