Drinking beer CUTS men’s risk of erectile dysfunction, study finds

IT may be hard to believe but drinking alcohol actually boosts potency.

Men will be rejoicing after a study found moderate boozing slashed the risk of erectile ­dysfunction by nearly a fifth compared to teetotallers.

It runs contrary to the commonly held idea that alcohol causes “brewer’s droop” in amorous fellas.

Experts think a drink raises nitric oxide levels, which widens blood vessels and improves circulation — crucial for a solid performance.

The global study analysed data on more than 210,000 men and the impact of alcohol on their erections.

Moderate boozers — up to 14 units a week — had an 18 per cent lower risk of impotence.

It was reported in journal Urologia Internationalis.

Shen Li of Anhui Medical University, China, said: “We have shown that regular alcohol consumption was significantly associated with a reduced risk of erectile dysfunction.”

Five million Brits suffer from the condition.

Guidelines recommend no more than 14 units a week — six pints of beer or six standard 175ml glasses of wine — for men and women.