Wine may protect men against impotence

Men who drink a couple of glasses of wine a day may be guarding themselves against impotence, says a recent study.

According to research from the University of West Australia, there is a correlation between moderate alcohol consumption and lower rates of long term erectile dysfunction (ED).

Although alcohol consumption is traditionally associated with poor bedroom performance, the survey, conducted on 1,700 West Australian males, found occurrences of ED were reduced among regular drinkers by 25-30% compared to non-drinkers.

Taking other factors, including heart disease, cigarette smoking and age, into account, the odds of ED occurring were lowest among men consuming between one and 20 standard drinks a week.

Dr Kew-Kim Chew, an epidemiologist at the University of West Australia in Nedlands, Perth, is calling for more research into the link.

He also said the results of the study were not a green light to drink greater volumes.

‘It would be socially irresponsible to say that even a binge drinker can get some benefits,’ he said.

Written by Hazel Macrae