For centuries upon centuries, certain foods and drinks have been lauded for their aphrodisiac powers. That is something that stimulates sexual desire. We’ve all heard about oysters and strawberries, but is there any scientific backing to it all?
It seems that the answer is yes. Here’s what to dish up to get into the right mood on . You’re welcome.
Seafood
We’ve probably all heard at some time how oysters are supposed to boost our sex lives – but is it fact or fiction? Research into seafood and sex by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggests that couples who eat more seafood have a better sex life and increases chances of getting pregnant. The study links the high content of zinc in the seafood, which boosts testosterone which increases to better sexual function.
Chocolate
You don’t need us to tell you – chocolate releases endorphins which give us that feel-good factor. It’s also proven that the dark chocolate can increase levels of dopamine and serotonin, more neurotransmitters responsible for happiness and involved in sexual arousal. For the healthiest option, always aim for a higher cocoa content.
Watermelon
Watermelons are also excellent for healthy erections and can help to increase your libido. Reports have it that that watermelon is a natural viagra that’s rich in citrulline, an amino acid which relaxes and dilates blood vessels.
Nuts
Nuts are full of zinc and boron, both excellent for releasing testosterone and estrogen. All nuts are full of healthy fats but must be eaten in small quantities.
Avocados
Vitamin B6 and folic acid are necessary for a healthy sex drive. Avocados are the perfect source. Folic acid increases the body with energy while vitamin B6 stabilises the hormones.
Eggs
These little beauties contain levels of amino acid L-arginine which stimulates blood vessels and is good for vascular health, particularly if you suffer from erectile dysfunction.
Honey
Listen to the birds and the bees. Honey gives us a natural energy boost which comes from boron in it, helping to regulate our levels of progesterone and estrogen. The word “honeymoon” is even derived from mead which is made with honey and given to newlyweds.
Spinach
Rich in magnesium, spinach also increases blood flow and can act as another natural viagra. Its properties come with a plethora of benefits, so you can indulge guilt-free on this love food.
Strawberries
These as well as raspberries are packed with vitamin C and rich in zinc, linked to testosterone and increased sexual functioning. With strawberries containing around 33 calories per 100 grams we can also enjoy these without the guilt.
Red wine
Let’s finish this Kama Sutra of delicious foods with a glug of vino rosso. A glass of red wine is notorious for helping us relax, but the resveratrol found in red wine is also a strong antioxidant which increases blood flow and decreases inflammation. Still, do remember to drink responsibly. A small glass of red wine (125ml) contains around 85 calories and too much alcohol can have the opposite effect on your libido and sex life.