Crack open a bottle of red boys – as scientists have found that flavonoids found in red wine, berries and cherries can reduce the occurrence of erectile dysfunction (ED) by as much as 21 per cent.
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of East Anglia and Harvard University. It included more than 50,000 middle-aged men, of whom one-third suffered from new onset erectile dysfunction.
The research found that men who regularly consumed flavonoid-rich foods were 10 per cent less likely to suffer from ED. It also found that combining exercise with a flavonoid-rich diet could reduce the risk of ED by up to 21 per cent.
Citrus fruits, blueberries, cherries, blackberries, radishes, apples, pears and blackcurrants are all high in flavonoids, and have for years been known to help those who suffer from diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Including foods such as these in your daily diet is equivalent to walking briskly for five hours per week.
“Men with erectile dysfunction are likely to be highly motivated to make healthier lifestyle choices, such as exercising more and eating the right foods – which would greatly benefit their long-term cardiovascular health as well,” said Dr Eric Rimm, senior author of the study and professor of epidemiology and nutrition at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health.
Erectile dysfunction affects almost one in two middle-aged and older men.
Professor Aedin Cassidy from The University of East Anglia said that men who consume flavonoid-rich foods would “see a marked improvement in reducing erectile dysfunction”.
Of the six main types of commonly consumed flavonoids, three in particular (anthocyanins, flavanones and flavones) were found to be most beneficial.
“Flavonoids are present in many plant-based foods and drinks including fruits, vegetables, tea, herbs and wine,” she said.
So, if you suffer from erectile dysfunction, now may be a great time to open a nice bottle of red.
Read more at The Universtity of East Anglia
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