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Make no mistake: overdrinking to the point of extreme intoxication can lead to a barrage of adverse effects on your general and sex life.
But don’t abstain from this potent liquor just yet. Research shows that consuming moderate amounts of red wine may actually improve your sexual function.
According to one study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, healthy individuals who drank red wine once per day had increased sexual desire and sexual function compared to those who didn’t drink at all.
However, it’s also noted that those who exceeded the one-drink limit did not experience the same benefits.
So what is it about red wine drinkers that make them such a turn on?
Let’s look into the science behind red wine consumption and its benefits to the body, and why it leads to such great sex.
4 Reasons Why Red Wine is Good For Sex Life
If you and your partner want to stir up the mood before engaging in the physical act, drink red wine.
Without further ado, let’s look at some of the benefits of red wine sexually.
1. Red Wine May Help Maintain Testosterone Levels Within The Body
Multiple studies have shown that red wine samples between 2 to 8% concentration inhibited the glucuronidation of testosterone by up to 70% over 2 hours.
Testosterone is a male androgen that plays several key roles in the body. Some of its primary functions include:
- The regulation of sexual drive
- Bone mass and fat distribution
- Production of sperm and red blood
- Increase mood and energy
- Strengthens concentration
The substances found in red wine grant testosterone a longer time to circulate in the body. The inhibited glucuronidation of testosterone acts as fuel to increase libido and sexual desire. This makes it easier for men to enjoy the sexual act for much longer and with increased satisfaction.
That said, drinking too much red wine can cause the opposite effect, causing your testosterone levels to plummet due to the inhibition of vital hormonal processes in your brain and body. With that being the case, it’s best to drink only one or two glasses of red wine for a night—nothing more.
2. Red Wine May Reduce Sexual Performance Anxiety
Sex is, above all, an enjoyable and loving act. But sometimes, our brains can cause a vicious loop leading us to believe that we’re worse than we really are.
Sexual performance anxiety is a type of anxiety that leads to pre-intercourse jitters and a lack of confidence, making it difficult to perform sexually. While communicating openly to your partner or therapist can shake away the anxiety, red wine can inhibit your feelings of anxiety and get you feeling in a better mood for sex.
Performance anxiety can stem from a lot of places. From body image to penis size, the anxiety men may undergo can feel insurmountable and lead to erectile problems. If you’re having a difficult time sexually performing, seek professional help to address the root cause of your problem.
3. Polyphenols in Red Wine May Decrease Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
One study has shown that cases of erectile dysfunction can decrease by 14% following a diet with red wine. The reason for this reduction can be traced to one compound found in red wine called polyphenol.
Polyphenol plays a big role in blood flow and blood circulation, keeping blood vessels healthy and strong. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammation properties, which can prevent the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes from occurring.
These diseases are infamous for their association with erectile dysfunction due to their blood vessel-damaging properties. As such, eating a polyphenol-rich diet (like drinking red wine) can curb that risk significantly as it increases blood flow and comes with many more positive effects.
4. Red Wine May Increase Sexual Arousal
After you’ve taken a few swigs of alcoholic beverages, the effects can speak for themselves. You feel more open and relaxed. You also feel more daring, giving you the type of courage that allows you to approach an attractive person on the dance floor.
On top of that, there’s already an unsaid expectation that drinking wine can lead to something more. If the chemistry is there, or if your partner is feeling excited, the lowered inhibitions derived from taking a few sips can heighten sexual arousal quite significantly.
Disadvantages of Excessive Red Wine Drinking
Drinking booze can be a balancing act. You want enough to make you feel buzzed and confident, but not too much that you lose a significant ability to be in full control of your situation.
Tipping the scales, however, is something that happens more often than we’d like. And when it happens, the effects can be detrimental and turn a good date into a sour one.
Here are some negative side effects that can happen when you drink too much:
- Delayed ejaculation
- Alcohol-induced ED, commonly referred to as “whiskey dick”
- Desire to engage in risky sexual behavior
- Reduces sexual sensitivity
- Weakens orgasms
If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, get in touch with a local erectile dysfunction doctor to speak about your condition.
Alternative Ways to Improve Your Sex Life
Red wine isn’t the only cure for sexual dryness—nor should it be considered as such. It’s useful, sure, but it shouldn’t be the shoulder to lean on when you’re unable to maintain an erection.
There are a multitude of ways to keep it going in the bedroom, both naturally and clinically. These include:
- Testosterone replacement therapy
- Psychotherapy
- Penile pumps
- Vacuum erectile devices
- Acoustic wave therapy
- Medication
- Improved lifestyle habits
Contact St. Louis’ Leading Men’s Clinic for Medical Guidance to Improve Your Sex Life
Wine and sex go hand-in-hand, and for good reason. In moderation, liquors like red wine can be beneficial and lead to a host of benefits that can make the bedroom experience a fun one.
However, moderation is key. Too much wine can lead to a slew of negative side effects. Therefore, it’s imperative to control your intake to one to two glasses every day at most.
If you need any more medical assistance to get your sex drive going, talk with a doctor to assist you in formulating a treatment plan.
The medical professionals at St. Louis’ Paramount Men’s Medical Center specialize in treating conditions that impact men’s health. Our concierge approach positions your unique case at the centerpoint of our focus. We don’t just give you a pill for ED and send you on your way. We treat the underlying issues that led to conditions such as Erectile Dysfunction, Low Testosterone, and more. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.