Sexual Dysfunction Among Young Men: Overview of Dietary Components Associated With Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract

Background Sexual dysfunction is relatively common in young men, presenting in diverse manifestations, including erectile dysfunction (ED), for which dietary modifications, including increased intake of dietary antioxidants, have been suggested as promising and cost-efficient approaches. Aim To assess the consumption of selected dietary antioxidants, in particular flavonoids, in relation to ED symptoms in young men. Methods Men 18 to 40 years old were invited to complete an anonymous web-based questionnaire for this case-control study. ED was diagnosed with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and flavonoid intake was recorded using food-frequency questionnaires, with an emphasis on flavonoid-rich foods such as coffee, fruits, etc. Participants without ED (IIEF score ≥ 26; n = 264) formed the control group and those with ED (IIEF score < 26; n = 86) formed the case group. Outcomes Dietary flavonoid intake. Results Men with ED reported a lower median monthly intake of total flavonoids (−2.18 g, 95% CI = −3.15 to −1.21, P < .001) and all flavonoid subclasses (P < .001) compared with controls. Adjustment of intake for age and body mass index showed that consumption of flavonoids 50 mg/day lowered the risk for ED by 32% (odds ratio = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.55–0.85, P < .001). Of all recorded flavonoids, flavones appeared to contribute the most to healthy erectile function. Controls reported a greater consumption of vegetables and fruits, a lower intake of dairy and alcoholic beverages, and a less intense smoking habit compared with cases (P < .001). Clinical Implications Increased intake of fruits, vegetables, and flavonoids decreases the risk of ED in young men. Strength and Limitations The strength of this study stems from the innovative hypothesis, the young age of participants, and the suggested therapeutic effects of cheap dietary components against ED. Limitations include the relatively small sample and cross-sectional design. Conclusion Low flavonoid—in particular flavone—intake is associated with ED in young adult men.

Effect Of Food On Female Sexuality

“…The action of flavonoids, particularly especially flavone, rich in nuts, improved erectile function [23]. This is consistent with our data, which demonstrate that 25.3% of participating women think that nudes impair the sexual functioning of their husbands.…”

Buriti (Mauritia Flexuosa) Pulp and Oil as an Adjuvant in Testosterone Replacement Therapy

“…It is reasonable to assume that this particular group of men (hypogonadal) are more exposed to oxidative stress (OS), being hypogonadism symptoms, in some degree, related to OS. Erectile dysfunction is associated with OS caused by dysfunction of antioxidant enzymes and excessive production of free radicals such as superoxide, hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals [55][56][57]. Zhang et al [55], in their study, found a possible protective role of dietary antioxidants against erectile disfunction.…”

“…Kazem et al [56] in an animal model with rabbits evidenced that long-term use of pomegranate juice (an antioxidant beverage) was capable of decreasing erectile dysfunction. Analyzing 350 men, between 18 and 40 years of age, one study [57] found that the group diagnosed with erectile dysfunction had lower dietary intake of antioxidants than the control group. This same study further showed that consumption of 50mg/day of flavonoids was able to reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction by 32%.…”

Relationship between Dietary Patterns with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Erectile Dysfunction: A Collaborative Review

“…Of all the flavonoids recorded, flavones appeared to contribute the most to healthy erectile function. Controls reported higher consumption of fruit and vegetables, lower consumption of dairy products and alcoholic beverages, and less intense smoking than the cases (p < 0.001) [37].…”