Wednesday 29 November 2017

Study shows caffeine may reduce erectile dysfunction, improve sex life

Researchers from The University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston found men who drank two to three cups of coffee a day had a lower occurrence of erectile dysfunction, according to a public release on May 20. The study compared the men who consumed the caffeine (between 85 and 170 milligrams) to men who drank less than seven milligrams a day. The only exception was with men who had diabetes as there was no reduction in erectile dysfunction in the diabetes group.

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It is proposed the association between caffeine consumption and the reduction in erectile dysfunction is of a biological nature. The caffeine appears to relax the penile arteries and cavernous smooth muscle leading to improved penile blood flow. The study was not limited to coffee consumption and imposed caffeine in the form of coffee, tea, soda and sports drinks.

Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence or ED, is the inability for a male to achieve an (penis) erection. According to a study conducted in 2007, more than 18 million men over the age of 20 have been affected with this condition. It is most prevalent in older men with a history of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and a lack of physical activity. Half of men with diabetes were affected while approximately 5% of men between the ages of 20 to 40 experienced erectile dysfunction. It was more common in men over the age of 70.

At any age, extreme caffeine consumption can be dangerous and even fatal in rare cases. It is assumed 400 milligrams of caffeine is safe for healthy adults, which is approximately four cups of brewed coffee a day. More than 500 milligrams can cause side effects such as stomach upset and muscle tremors. Additionally, caffeine may interact with certain medications therefore individuals are advised to seek consultation with a medical professional before increasing caffeine amounts to aid in erectile dysfunction.

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