Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and stores are sporting copious amounts of pink and red merchandise. It’s that time of year when men are especially pressured to pull out the romance. Instead of wooing that special someone with a box of chocolates (which also contain loads of refined sugar, fat, and often chemical coloring and flavor. Blech!), why not show her how much you care with a meal of foods that are not only good for the body, but boost the libido. Here’s a list to get you started.
1. Oysters. Long-touted as an aphrodisiac, oysters do not disappoint. Oysters are high in zinc, which is essential in maintaining healthy levels of testosterone (a hormone directly related to sex drive in both men and women). Oysters also offer a boost of dopamine, a hormone which increases libido. Consuming them raw seems to be most effective.
2. Garlic. This flavorful bulb contains allicin, which improves blood flow to the sexual organs. Just don’t forget the breath mints.
3. Basil. It’s not just for Italians anymore. High in antioxidants, this flavorful herb is said to increase circulation, stimulate sex drive, and boost fertility. Plus the aroma of basil is intoxicating. Basil oil was traditionally used by Mediterranean prostitutes to attract customers (and not just for their famous pasta dishes). The aroma of basil can also help foster a sense of general well-being, which helps shed stress and can allow us to more easily enjoy “bedroom activities”.
4. Asparagus. Aside from its slightly phallic appearance, asparagus is also a good source of vitamin E. Often called the “sex vitamin”, vitamin E aids the body in hormone production which enhances mood and sexual desire. As an added benefit, Vitamin E helps prevent aging and natural sexual longevity. Vitamin E has also been used by some women as a sexual lubricant to heighten sensitivity. Although what you do with your asparagus is entirely up to you.
5. Avocado. Known to the Aztecs as ahuacatal, or “testicle tree”, avocados help increase libido for both genders. Its high levels of folic acid assist the body in metabolizing protein, resulting in increased energy levels. Obviously a good thing inside and outside the bedroom.
6. Almonds. The high levels of essential fatty acids found in almonds, provide the basis for healthy male hormone levels which regulate sex drive. What’s in it for your lady? Studies show that just the smell of almonds can act as an aphrodisiac for women. Makes me wonder why there isn’t more almond-scented aftershave out there on the market.
7. Nutmeg. This wonderfully aromatic spice has traditionally been used in Indian medicine to boost libido. Recent animal studies have shown nutmeg to have the same effect as the drug Viagra on mating behavior.
8. Chilies. Capsaicin, the substance that lends chilies their heat, can also lend some heat to your love life. It stimulates nerve endings, raises heart rate, and triggers the release of endorphins causing you to just feel doggone great.
9. Dark Chocolate. A 2006 study in The Journal of Sexual Medicine found that women who ate chocolate on a daily basis had higher sexual function than woman who did not. Dark chocolate contains high levels of serotonin, a mood booster, and phenyl ethylamine which mimics the brain chemistry of a person in love. So maybe it’s not such a bad idea to buy her the box of chocolates after all.
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