A Study on Male Sexual Health: The Role of Polyphenols
I. Introduction
A comprehensive study involving 50,000 men has uncovered a straightforward yet palatable approach to enhance male erectile function and sexual health. Researchers published the findings of a 30 - year monitoring study on these 50,000 men. Starting from 1986, the men were periodically questioned about their ability to achieve and sustain an erection. Simultaneously, data regarding their regular dietary intake was collected for comparative analysis.
II. Polyphenols and Erectile Function
A. The Study's Revelation
The study revealed that men who regularly consumed foods rich in specific polyphenols, such as anthocyanins, flavanones, and flavones, experienced improved sexual function and had a significantly lower likelihood of developing erectile dysfunction.
B. Polyphenol - Rich Foods
Foods high in these polyphenols, which were common in the diets of men with strong erections, include blueberries, cherries, blackberries, and radishes. Significantly, lead researcher Aedin Cassidy noted that consuming “just a few portions a week” of these foods was sufficient to yield the observed results.
III. Mechanisms of Action
A. Cardiovascular and Diabetes Link
Certain polyphenols, especially anthocyanins and flavonoids, are associated with a reduced incidence of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Since a healthy heart is crucial for proper erectile function (due to the hydraulic nature of the process), preventing or slowing the development of these diseases through dietary polyphenols can lead to better erections.
B. Enzyme Activation
In addition, specific anthocyanins can activate the enzyme AMPK. This activation impacts the nitrous oxide systems, which regulate the intensity and duration of erections.
IV. Application of the Findings
A. Dietary Incorporation
It is evident that ingesting polyphenols, particularly those found in blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, radishes, red wine, apples, pears, and citrus products, can enhance erections and prevent erectile dysfunction. While the exact optimal quantity requires further research, adding a handful of blueberries to your cereal or protein shake a few times a week (available for purchase on Amazon) could potentially replicate the benefits seen in the study.
B. Supplements
For added convenience, supplements can be considered. Indigo - 3G (available on Amazon), an anthocyanin - based product initially designed to increase insulin sensitivity, is a highly concentrated source of anthocyanins and can significantly improve sexual function. Similarly, Superfood (available on Amazon), a freeze - dried blend of 19 different fruits and vegetables, contains abundant amounts of the polyphenols identified in the erection study.
V. The Role of Steak
Steak - eaters have an advantage over those who consume only polyphenol - rich foods without animal flesh. Meat - eaters generally obtain more vitamin B12, which is essential for strong erections. However, it's important to note that a strong erection is a sign of overall good health. If erectile function is compromised, improving nutrition with polyphenols (and perhaps additional animal protein) is a good starting point.
VI. Reference
- Cassidy M et al. “Dietary flavonoid intake and incidence of erectile dysfunction.” Am J Clin Nutr. 2016 Feb;103(2):534 - 41. PubMed: 26762373.