A study from Houston might give men another reason to drink that morning cup of java they all know and love. Researchers wanted to investigate whether there was an association between caffeine consumption and erectile dysfunction, since caffeine is consumed by more than 85% of adults. Coffee was used to test caffeine in the study because coffee is actually the world’s primary source of caffeine. As for those who suffer from erectile dysfunction, about 18.4 percent of men in the United States who are 20 years old and older suffer from erectile dysfunction, suggesting more than 18 million men are affected by the condition.

The study from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston has found that drinking a few cups of coffee each day could lower a man’s risk for erectile dysfunction. The researchers found that men who drank at least two cups of coffee each day had a 42 percent reduction in erectile dysfunction problems.

The study involved 3,724 men over the age of 20. They all too part in a survey called the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and were questioned about their consumption of caffeine as well as whether they suffered from erectile dysfunction. The researchers collected data regarding the amount of tea, coffee, and other highly caffeinated beverages such as soda and sports drinks, that they drank on average per day.

The results showed that men who drank 85 to 170 milligrams of caffeine a day were 42 percent less likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction problems, and men who drank 171 to 303 milligrams of caffeine each day were 39 percent less likely to suffer from it, compared to men who drank 0 to 7 milligrams of caffeine per day.

What the study found was that men who had 2-3 cups of coffee each day reduced their risk of erectile dysfunction.  So among the 3,724 men analyzed (20 years old or over), those who had more caffeine or coffee daily, were less likely to report erectile dysfunction compared to men who had low caffeine intake.  This trend held true in men suffering from high blood pressure and obesity, but not in men with diabetes. Diabetes is a strong risk factor for erectile dysfunction.

More research is needed, but as for what the association between caffeine and ED, researchers believe that coffee and caffeine are causing cavernous smooth muscle tissue (found in the penis) to relax, allowing more blood flow to the area and leading to improved erectile function.     

Over the years experts have found numerous health benefits associated with drinking coffee. Studies in the past have linked moderate coffee drinking with reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes, basal cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, oral cancer, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. It can also elevate heart rate and blood pressure. It is a major source of two powerful antioxidants: chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, both of which are associated with preventing diabetes and heart disease. Coffee can also reduce the risk of stroke, liver diseases, Parkinson’s disease, and cognitive decline. It can also provide you with essential nutrients, fight depression, help you burn fat, improve physical performance, and even live longer.

As for what kind of coffee you should drink to get these benefits, aim to drink it black. Black coffee is lower in fat and calories. Try not to put all that milk and sugar as it can only raise your blood sugar and make you gain weight. Caffeinated or decaf? Caffeine is not the secret; it does not matter whether you drink caffeinated or decaf, however most would prefer caffeinated to get that boost of energy. As for how many cups per day, aim to drink 3-4 cups daily. Some may think this is too many, but research shows that drinking only 1-2 cups per day does not provide the same health benefits. And because coffee is a diuretic and can cause headaches and insomnia, make sure you drink about two glasses of water for every one cup of coffee.

The disclaimer? If you’re pregnant, have osteoporosis, acid reflux, or a heart condition, this many cups of coffee daily may not be for you. Otherwise, enjoy!