Although not without risks, coffee continues to show itself as a possible solution for any number of ailments. Now comes a study saying, yes, it could help cure erectile dysfunction (ED).

Many studies over decades have shown coffee consumption can help with type 2 diabetes, can be a preventative against Parkinson’s disease, and helpful with liver disease, improved brain function and decreased depression.

Researchers involved with the new University of Texas study say that a substantial 42 percent reduction in erectile dysfunction was recorded in men who drink two or more cups of coffee per day.

More than 18 percent of men over 20 years of age deal with ED in the United States. This suggests that more than 18 million men in that country are affected.

Data for the study came from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, in which over 3,700 men over 20 participated. They were asked not only about their ED and coffee intake, but also other sources of caffeine, such as tea and energy drinks.

It appears that some is good, but more is not necessarily better. When compared with those who did not consume any caffeine, those who consumed 85 to 170 milligrams of the stimulant each day were 42 percent less likely to experience erectile dysfunction. However, when than amount was exceeded (171 to 303 milligrams a day), 39 percent were less likely to experience ED.

One cup of instant coffee contains approximately 100 milligrams of caffeine. The effect suggested by the study is that caffeine assists in relaxation of arteries in the penis, thus increasing blood flow. As for risks, two cups (or more) of coffee each day can increase heart disease risk with a specific – yet common – genetic mutation.