Maybe there’s a scientific reason that wine has long been a prelude to romance? New research shows that wine and certain flavonoid-rich fruits can help reduce the risk for erectile dysfunction.
The findings, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition by researchers from Harvard University and the University of East Anglia, indicate men under 70 benefit the most.
The flavonoids offering the biggest benefits in preventing ED include anthocyanins found in blueberries, cherries, blackberries, radishes and blackcurrant), and flavanones and flavones (found in citrus fruits).
Past research has shown that increased exercise can improve ED, but this research indicates eating a flavonoid-rich diet is as effective as briskly walking for up to five hours a week.
Higher total fruit intake was associated with a 14 percent reduction in the risk of ED, while combining exercise with a diet rich in flavonoid-rich foods cut the risk by 21 percent, the researchers found.
“We already knew that intake of certain foods high in flavonoids may reduce the risk of conditions including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This is the first study to look at the association between flavonoids and erectile dysfunction, which affects up to half of all middle-aged and older men,” said lead researcher Aedin Cassidy from UEA.
“Flavonoids are present in many plant-based foods and drinks including fruits, vegetables, tea, herbs and wine. We examined six main types of commonly consumed flavonoids and found that three in particular – anthocyanins, flavanones, and flavones – are beneficial.”
More than 50,000 middle aged men were included in the study. They were asked about their ability to have and maintain an erection and their diets.
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