Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction

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Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction

When a man struggles with erections, there could be several issues at play. Age is the most common, with most men suffering from some sort of erectile dysfunction after the age of 60. Health issues, such as cardiovascular, diabetes, and obesity can also play a role.

But what if you are young and healthy? Alcohol consumption could be a factor. Some studies show that alcohol—particularly red wine—can improve erectile dysfunction to some degree. However, too much alcohol can have a negative effect on your sex life.  

How Red Wine Works

When consumed in moderation, red wine has the following benefits for erectile dysfunction:

• It decreases platelet adhesion. When platelets stick together, a thrombus can result, which can block arterial blood flow. Resveratrol, a chemical found in red wine, reduces adhesion so that blood can flow and result in an erection.
• It improves lipid profiles. Red wine decreases bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. It is also an antioxidant, all which improves erectile function.
• It increases nitrous oxide levels. Red wine increases nitrous oxide levels, which helps dilate the arteries and increase blood flow to the penis. This helps create an erection.
• It increases insulin sensitivity. Red wine increases the body’s sensitivity to insulin, which reduces the harmful effects of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Overall, this helps improve the cardiovascular system as well as erectile function.

Negative Effects

Alcohol must be consumed in moderation, though. While it can help increase confidence and sexual desire, it comes with risks when consumed in large quantities. It can increase the risk of various types of cancer, including GI tract cancer, oral cancer, and breast cancer. It can increase the risk of liver disease and nerve toxicity as well as reduce testosterone levels. You should never drink alcohol while taking Viagra, as this can cause a dangerous reduction in blood pressure.

When it comes to sex, drinking large amounts of alcohol can cause erectile dysfunction. It can make it harder to get or maintain an erection. That’s because alcohol interferes with the messengers in the brain that regulate blood flow to the penis. Alcohol can also reduce the production of testosterone, which is the hormone that controls male sexual functions.

Alcohol use can also affect orgasms. It makes it harder to feel sexual stimulation. Men may ejaculate too quickly or find it harder to orgasm. Over time, excessive alcohol consumption can also negatively affect your sex-drive since testosterone levels are reduced. The penis and testicles could also shrink with prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption.

Contact Us Today

While alcohol can help with erectile dysfunction, too much can have the opposite effect. If you are experiencing trouble with erections, seek medical help.

Contact a New York doctor from Lazare Urology to schedule an appointment. We can help you enjoy happy and healthy sex life. Schedule a consultation by filling out the online form or calling (718) 568-7516. We serve the Brooklyn area.