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Eat to boost libido
An ample supply of all nutrients promotes good
circulation, hormonal balance, nerve ending sensitivity and emotional well-being. Include B Vitamins (in whole grains and leafy greens) to lower stress. Nutrient superstars, fish, nuts and seeds offer essential fatty acids. Interestingly, the body uses cholesterol, found in fish, in the production of sex hormones.
A well-balanced diet of fruit, vegetables, grains, meat, fish, poultry, eggs and milk products will give you the proteins, carbohydrates and fats + the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your body firing in top condition. Stay hydrated to keep your love juices flowing.
The science + folklore
Certain foods may have gained a reputation as aphrodisiacs in the past when overall nutrition wasn’t adequate. There simply wasn’t the abundance or variety of food available all year. So, eating a nutrient-rich food could have a profound effect on overall health, in turn on sexual desire, making it appear that the food itself had aphrodisiac effects. Folklore was also rooted in suggestive shapes, stimulating aromas or chemical powers: it was believed pine nuts stimulated the libido and the erotic appearance of a banana suggested it as a love fruit.
Although aphrodisiac claims have been made about various plants for millennia, a 2011 review of natural aphrodisiacs by University of Guelph researchers found that the science has never been clearly reported. The review suggests saffron and panax ginseng (Korean ginseng) improved human sexual function. Cloves, garlic and nutmeg increased sexual behaviour in animals. Although there is no corresponding research for humans, sprinkling cloves and nutmeg on food certainly won’t hurt. |
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Some foods actually do stimulate blood flow in the body, including to the uh... love making areas. Capsaicin in hot peppers increases heart rate and breathing, and prompts the body to release endorphin pain killers.
Sumptuous chocolate has the added benefit of ‘feel good’ chemicals; women who habitually eat chocolate have higher sexual function scores than those who don’t. Maybe it’s the phenylethylamine and serotonins in chocolate, the same chemicals naturally released in our brains when we feel loving and passionate.
Sensual healing
Food’s significant effect on sexual attraction and performance likely involves the senses intertwining with feelings, memories and imagination. Ava Cadell, clinical sexologist and author of 12 Steps to Everlasting Love, says, “Let’s be honest, the most erotic organ is the brain.” Fuel your brain with food fantasies; arouse the senses with stimulating aromas, tantalizing tastes and luxurious textures. The aroma of lavender and pumpkin pie have a stimulating effect on men (nutmeg and cloves commonly used in pumpkin pie), while the fragrance of licorice combined with cucumber is stimulating for women.
Some foods are undeniably sexy. Gently bite into a strawberry and you’re captivated by the sweetness and rich aroma, while the pomegranate’s crimson, leathery skin and juicy, glistening jewels are a romantic picnic waiting to happen. Luxuriate in the tropical exotic juiciness and aroma of a mango.
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