For centuries, humans have been obsessed with Aphrodisiac foods—foods that increase and improve Sexual drive and performance. There is definitely anecdotal evidence and other information that point to the sexual benefits of certain foods. An aphrodisiac is a food, substance or behavior that increases sexual potency, duration, and performance. In addition to men and women seeking to enhance their libidos, pleasure and stamina or cure sexual dysfunctions, scientists and the medical community have embarked on a quest to prove or disprove the aphrodisiac theories that have emerged among peoples and cultures all over the world. And the debate rages on about the sexual benefits of many of the foods and rituals deemed as sexually enhancing.
Although it is true that the mind is the most potent aphrodisiac, the scientist community has agreed on the sexual Health benefits of various foods within our reach. Dr. Mehmet Oz, for example, has a Better Sex Diet on his website that proposes to enhance the sexual life of those who follow it.
Here are some commonly known foods that can improve your sex life:
Avocados: Avocados, a fruit rich in healthy fats, is good for cardiovascular health. Avocados keep the heart beating strong, thus aiding in the flow of blood to the right places for sexual enhancement.
I eat an avocado a day for my health. I love them and they are an important part of my culture. Now, after knowing they are an aphrodisiac, I will eat more of them! —Tanya C., Dallas, TX
Almonds: Almonds are full of zinc, selenium, and vitamin E, which are trace minerals that aid in sexual health and the health of the reproductive system.
Strawberries: Strawberries are filled with folic acid. Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps prevent health defects and also has been linked to higher sperm counts among men.
Seafood: For many years, oysters have been deemed among the most well-known aphrodisiacs. The sexual enhancing properties of oysters can be explained by their vast content of zinc, which has a positive relationship to sexual health. Oily fish, such as wild salmon and herring, also contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which enhance circulation and cardio health. These positively impact the blood flow in the sexual organs, thus enhancing sexual activity.
When I eat lots of salmon, my husband notices that my skin looks healthier, more moisturized and radiant. He cannot help touching me. I never correlated eating salmon with having more sexual desire but it does something for my skin that shows, which enhances my sex life! —Helen H., Raleigh, NC
Arugula: Arugula is full of antioxidants and trace minerals that mitigate the effect of contaminants and pollutants that enter the body and could interfere with sexual function and libido.
Figs: The high fiber content of figs positively impacts heart health, which also impacts the functioning of sexual organs.
Citrus: Citrus fruits are full of vitamin C, antioxidants, and folic acid, all of which are good for reproductive health.
Maca: A traditional food from South America, Maca is known to enhance libido and has been used to enhance stamina, endurance, and energy. Maca is also rich in fiber and many nutritional components, essential for sexual health.
