Chocolate-dipped strawberries are a Valentine’s Day staple for many lovebirds, but new research indicates that the benefits of the colorful fruit may go beyond taste: they could reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED).
The research findings
A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that middle-aged men who consumed foods rich in flavonoids—such as strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and citrus fruits—could reduce the risk of ED.
The large-scale study looked at more than 50,000 middle-aged men, including their dietary habits and their ability to get and maintain an erection.
The results of the data analysis found that men who regularly ate foods high in flavones, flavanones and anthocyanins had a 10% reduced risk of ED. Men with the highest total fruit intake had a 14% reduced risk of ED.
Foods rich in flavonoids
In addition to the fruits mentioned above, flavonoids can be found in red wine, apples, pears, radishes, cherries and black currants.
According to the study’s lead researcher, Professor Aedin Cassidy of the UK’s University of East Anglia, just a few portions a week was enough to produce results.
Combining benefits
Men who combined a diet rich in flavonoids with regular exercise had an even greater reduction in the risk for ED—by 21%.
Even after accounting for other factors—such as smoking, caffeine consumption and body weight, the findings were the same.
ED as a warning sign
While ED can be embarrassing and play a significant role in mental health by causing depression, anxiety and relationship issues, it can also serve as an early warning sign of poor vascular function.
If you’re experiencing ED, it could be a tip off that it’s time to make lifestyle changes in order to prevent a heart attack or cardiovascular disease. The good news is that a flavonoid-rich diet may also benefit the heart, giving you two good reasons to stock up on colorful produce next time you’re at the grocery store.
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