Many men immediately turn to pharmaceuticals to help reduce erectile dysfunction, but there are alternatives that may assist before making that leap. Flavonoid rich foods are associated with the reduction of erectile dysfunction, with anthocyanins and flavanones found to offer up the greatest benefits in helping to prevent the condition. A collaborative study conducted by Harvard University and the University of East Anglia shows that consuming a diet rich in flavonoids is as beneficial for the condition as briskly walking for up to 5 hours a week is, as published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
6 main types of flavonoids were examined, with the greatest benefits in preventing the condition were found to be in the flavonoids called flavanones and flavones which are found in citrus fruits, as well as the flavonoid called anthocyanins found in radishes, strawberries, apples, pears, red wine, blackcurrant, blueberries, blackberries, and cherries. It is known that increased exercise can improve erectile function, this study suggests that consuming a diet rich in flavonoids can be just as good. The results showed that a diet with higher fruit intake decreased the risk of erectile dysfunction by 14%, with a risk reduction of 21% with a combination of exercise and the consuming of a flavonoid rich diet. Participants who had consumed just a few portions of foods high in flavonoids a week were shown to be 10% less likely to develop erectile dysfunction.
Over 50,000 middle aged men were involved in the conduction of this large population based study. The participants were asked about their ability to have and maintain an erection sufficient enough for penetrative sexual intercource. The men were also asked about dietary intake. Data was collected every 4 years. A range of factors were taken into account such as whether the participant smoked and how often, consumed caffeine and how much, physical activity levels, and body weight. The research was restricted to only include men who were in good health.
Of the men who participated more than one third reported the onset of new erectile dysfunctions. But those who had consumed a diet rich in flavanones, flavones, and anthocyanins were less likely to develop the condition. Participants who consumed a high amount of flavanones and anthocyanins and were also physically active displayed the lowest risk of erectile dysfunction. It was noted the highest benefits were among the younger men.
Erectile dysfunction is often an early barometer of poor vascular function, it offers up a critical opportunity in which to intervene and possibly prevent heart attack and cardiovascular disease.
