Foods to Boost Libido
Sexual desire is complex and usually a lack of libido has to do with more than nutrition alone. It can include stress levels, your sexual desire for your partner or just life in general can interfere. It is natural to experience these ups and down in our sex lives.
Although not officially proven the science is still out on whether certain foods can increase libido. Researchers suspect that the bodies’ reaction to certain foods may increase the levels of dopamine (a neurotransmitter) produced and are linked to sexual function and libido.
Libido food boosters are called aphrodisiacs, named after the great ancient Greek goddess Aphrodite the goddess of love.
Most famous of all food aphrodisiacs are oysters, their high zinc content may contribute to their effects. Zinc is an important mineral required for many everyday body functions including stamina, cell metabolism and regulating testosterone the male hormone. An increase in male testosterone can mean harder longer erections.
Oysters, Crab & Lobster
For Valentine’s Day eat raw oyster shackled over ice with a wedge of lemon. Not a fan of the raw oyster? Then try Oysters Kilpatrick, a popular item on many restaurant menus. The ingredients are a mixture of finely chopped bacon, tomato sauce, Worchester sauce and a hint of tabasco, put them on a tray and under a grill until the bacon is cooked to perfection.
Don’t just limit yourself to raw oysters alone, crab and lobster also contain moderate levels of zinc. Be creative! Perhaps oysters are not your “bag”, Bisque is a creamy tomato seafood soup that is a fantastic alternative, packed full of nutrients and delicious.
Other foods to add to your diet to increase libido naturally include:
Strawberries
It’s not by chance that an entrée of raw oysters and chocolate covered strawberries dessert are often paired together on special days like Valentines Day. Apart from being indulgent foods, they are perfect to set the tone for a romantic evening. Together they give the libido a great kick start! Strawberries are high in vitamin C. This healthy vitamin can provide an indirect benefit to a man’s sexual function. It has been proven in studies that when ingested they protect men against prostate cancer. The folic acid also aides in creating healthy sperm cells.
Chocolate
Most people love chocolate. In fact, I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t love the taste of chocolate and its smooth velvety texture. It’s not only one of life’s simple pleasures, but chocolate also contains phenylethylamine which is known to boost our endorphins, the “feel-good” chemicals in the brain. The jury is out on how much chocolate is needed to be consumed to have the desired effect. Be wary of the sugar content...although, this may also have the benefit of increased energy levels which may be of benefit in the bedroom.
Salmon
It is no secret that salmon is good for you. It is high in omega-3 fatty acids it is great for your heart; it increases dopamine levels in the brain and improves blood circulation. So, it is fantastic for erections!
Red Meat
Lean red meat is high in protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Foods containing rich amounts of amino acids are extremely beneficial for sexual appetite and overall good health. Vitamins found include: B3, B12, B6, Iron, Zinc and Selenium to name a few.
Avocado
Avocado is a great source of essential fats, vitamins and minerals like potassium, folate and vitamins C and B. To enable blood to get to sexual organs a healthy heart is pivotal. Monounsaturated fats are a good fat and reduce bad cholesterol levels which can lower the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Red Wine
Studies have found that drinking red wine regularly can increase female sexual desire, lubrication, and overall sexual function. It not only helps to release any inhibitions but has a direct effect on sexual activity. Those women who drink one or two glasses per day compared to those that don’t are more sexually active. So, a good glass of vino is a must-have for any special occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. Just be weary of how much you consume.
Other food sources include:
- Pine nuts
- Tomatoes
- Fortified breakfast cereal
- Spinach, kale, Brussel sprouts, cabbage
- Green tea
- Ginseng tea
- Eggs
- Seeds and nuts
