The notion that alcohol works as an aphrodisiac and libido enhancer has been around for many years. Now new research has come to light to make us more conscious about drinking.
It is true, of course, that alcohol can help people overcome their sexual inhibitions and anxieties. But when consumed in large doses appears to have a negative impact on erectile function.
Therefore according to experts of the Mayo Clinic, excessive alcohol consumption reduces the brain’s ability to get the message of sexual stimulation, just as with antidepressants. Alcohol has a direct effect on the parts of the nervous system that are essential for functions such as sexual arousal, orgasm, breathing, blood circulation and sensitivity of nerve endings.
In connection with the bloodstream, alcohol causes the contraction of blood vessels thus affecting blood circulation and the way the penis enters and exits therefrom. A good blood circulation can adjust the relaxation and contraction of the penis so that man is able to achieve and maintain an erection. Without good blood circulation, the penis will remain in flaccid state whatever the desire of man.
A study published in 2009 in Journal of Sexual Medicine found that the reduced volume of body fluids combined with a suppressed nervous system lead to disorders of sexual performance. This is because alcohol can dehydrate the body and reduce the volume of blood, while increasing levels of the hormone associated with erectile dysfunction, angiotensin. For the proper functioning of the body proper hydration is essential, as the most important biological functions use water molecules.
To avoid the negative effects of alcohol on sexual function one need not completely stop alcohol consumption but to drink in moderation. Moderate consumption is broadly determined to up to two drinks per day for men and one drink for women. The human liver can metabolize up to 30ml of alcohol in one hour. Any consumption above this amount will saturate the system and the level of alcohol will be increased in the blood.
On the other hand, moderate alcohol consumption may be beneficial for heart and sexual life. A 2004 study found that moderate alcohol consumption is associated with reduced mortality from cardiovascular diseases due to the antioxidant properties of alcoholic beverages. Polyphenols, a group of substances including tannins and anthocyanins containing alcoholic beverages found that may change the lipid profile, reduce the formation of blood clots, increase fibrinolysis, inhibit platelet function and increase levels of nitric oxide. These changes are very important for sexual function.
The negative effect of alcohol on erections is also called «Whiskeypenus», without this meaning that only is whiskey responsible for the problems in sexual performance. The effect of alcohol in the body is a function of the alcohol levels in the blood of the prior food intake and body weight of the individual.
(Source: MedicalDaily and The Guardian)