A new study has linked consumption of red wine and blueberries to reduced risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. When diet rich in blueberries and red wine is coupled with regular exercise, risk of the sexual dysfunction can be cut by a fifth, as per the study by researchers at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health and Norwich Medical School.

Study researchers found that the anthocyanins containing fruit, like cherries, blueberries, blackberries, blackcurrant and radishes, can be beneficial for middle-aged and older men who are the main target of ED.

The study whose findings are based on a previous research which suggested that exercise can be effective in reducing the risk of the sexual problem. Now, the new study has also found that a diet rich in flavonoids can be beneficial equal to walking briskly for more five hours a week.

Men can cut risk of developing ED by more than 20% if they are eating flavonoid-rich foods and taking part in physical activities, as per the study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. It also suggested that more fruit consumption is linked to reduction in the risk of developing ED by about 14%.

The researchers examined data of more than 50,000 middle-aged men since 1986. The participants were asked about their erection sufficient for having sex. They were also asked to tell their diets every four years.

The study concluded, “The men who consumed high levels of anthocyanins and flavanones, and who were also physically active, had the lowest risk of erectile dysfunction. Those who ate a diet full of anthocyanins, flavones and flavanones were less likely to suffer from ED”.

Professor Aedin Cassidy, lead researcher of the study, said flavanoids are available in a range of foods and drinks including vegetables, fruits tea, wine and herbs.