Eating berries and citrus fruit can prevent erectile dysfunction (09/02/16)

North American scientists have discovered that consuming berries and citrus fruit is associated with a reduced risk of problems in achieving and maintaining an erection.

These are the results of the study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, carried out by Harvard and University of East Anglia (UEA) researchers, in the United States.

The study tested if flavonoid-rich foods could prevent erectile dysfunction by improving vascular health.

The data of 25.096 health professional men who took part in the study was analysed: researchers examined the diet and if they had had trouble achieving an erection.

In a 10 year period, 35.6% of men reported to have had this type of problem for the first time. However, the research revealed that men that followed a flavonoid-rich diet (types: anthocyanins, flavones and flavanones) were less likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction.

Berries and citrus fruit

Berries are the most beneficial (rich in anthocyanins) followed by citrus fruits (rich in flavanones).

The main source of anthocyanins, flavones and flavanones are strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, grapes, red wine, apples, pears, cherries and citrus.

Although there is no clinical trials, data suggests that flavonoids can also improve blood pressure, blood flow and make our arteries more flexible.

Eating more fruit and exercising

The study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition recommends eating fruit and vegetables every day as part of a healthy and balanced diet. The research also showed that a combination of healthy diet containing a variety of flavonoids-rich foods with regular exercise have a cumulative effect.