A study following more than 25,000 men for more than two decades found that consuming foods rich in certain flavonoids—like red and purple berries, citrus fruits and red wines—might reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction. Flavonoids are plant-based compounds with powerful antioxidant properties; and according to the study, men only need to consume three portions a week of flavonoid-rich foods to get a 14% reduction in risk of ED. Combine that with being physically active, and researchers say you could reduce your risk by 21%.
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The study’s lead author Aedin Cassidy, a professor of nutrition at the University of East Anglia in the UK stated, “Most of the work we do relates to diet and heart disease. What’s interesting is the same process causes erectile dysfunction.” What makes the study especially convincing is that there has already been a ton of research proving that flavonoids help prevent heart disease. So even if they don’t reduce the risk of ED, consuming more flavonoids will at least protect your heart.
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Flavonoids are present in all vegetables and fruits that are deeply pigmented. Foods rich in flavonoids include Strawberries, Blueberries, Grapes, Papayas and Tomatoes. Deeply pigmented berries such as blackberries, blueberries, and grapes have been shown to be very helpful in improving circulation of the bloodstream. Additional studies show that these berries have been proven to be also beneficial in improving memory and cognition.
Want an easy way to incorporate flavonoids into your regular diet? How about flavonoid shake every morning. Check out some recipes here.
Curated article from:
NBC News
