A pharmacist has issued a warning to men planning their meals this Saturday: avoid heavy, fatty meals combined with alcohol to prevent potential difficulties later in the evening. Experts at Chemist Click explain how certain foods and drinks can impact erectile function.
Erectile dysfunction (ED), characterized by the ongoing difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual activity, affects about one in five men in the UK—roughly 4.3 million individuals—as well as an estimated 322 million men worldwide, according to global research from King’s College London.
Heavy meals rich in saturated fats, dense proteins, and creamy sauces prioritize blood flow toward digestion, reducing circulation to other areas of the body. Poor dietary choices have been linked to impaired blood vessel function, an essential factor in achieving and sustaining an erection. Additionally, diets high in processed and fatty foods contribute to risk factors such as high cholesterol, obesity, and cardiovascular problems, all of which can worsen erectile issues.
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While a drink or two might seem harmless, alcohol’s impact on erectile function is well documented. As a central nervous system depressant, alcohol slows nerve signals and decreases blood flow, which can blunt the physical response required for an erection.
“You might feel in the mood, but alcohol can dull your body’s ability to respond, making it harder to get or maintain an erection,” explains Abbas Kanani, Superintendent Pharmacist at Chemist Click.
Kanani adds, “Although a lavish meal and a few glasses of wine might seem like the perfect way to impress your partner, these choices can unintentionally disrupt blood flow and performance. Heavy meals and excessive alcohol consume your body’s resources and interfere with the nerve signals essential for an erection.”
To ensure a more confident and enjoyable evening, the pharmacist recommends opting for lighter, heart-healthy meals, staying well hydrated, and limiting alcohol intake to just one or two drinks. “Valentine’s Day is about connection, and optimal body function supports that best,” Kanani emphasizes.
For men concerned about performance, erectile dysfunction treatments may offer quick relief, but alcohol can reduce their effectiveness and increase side effects such as dizziness or flushing. Therefore, limiting alcohol intake while using these medications is advisable.