Health

Berries could be the key to this sensitive health issue for men

Apr 17, 2016

According to a recent study, eating berries and citrus fruit reduces a man’s risk of having problems with getting and keeping an erection.

The study of 25,000 men was conducted by the University of East Anglia (UEA) in the United Kingdom and Harvard University, and looked at whether foods that have flavonoids, like berries, citrus, most fruits and vegetables, tea and wine, could help prevent erectile dysfunction.

Three times at four-year intervals men involved in the study were asked about their ability to get an erection strong enough to have sex with, as well as any previous history of erectile dysfunction dating back to 1986. They completed a dietary report at the end of every four years. The study commenced in 2000 and was completed in 2008.

Over the course of the study 35.6 per cent of the men reported erectile dysfunction. However, those whose diets were rich in anthocyanins, flavones and flavanones were less likely to experience the condition.

“Erectile dysfunction is often an early barometer of poor vascular function and offers a critical opportunity to intervene and prevent cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and even death,” said senior study author Eric Rimm, an epidemiology and nutrition professor at Harvard.

“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.”

When the researchers looked at the specific fruits lowering the risk of erectile dysfunction they found the greatest benefit was from berries. The next most effective were citrus.

You can get flavonoids from strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, grapes, red wine, apples, pears, cherries and citrus products.

While it may seem embarrassing to bring up the topic of erectile dysfunction with your doctor, it is an important medical condition. If it is affecting your life and is making you feel uncomfortable, see your doctor.