They say you are what you eat, and while plenty of things we consume have a direct impact on our hormones, brain chemistry, energy and stress levels, some also may serve a much sexier purpose: aphrodisiacs. There’s a great deal of lore surrounding foods that supposedly boost your sex life, and throughout history, various edibles have been hailed as intense aphrodisiacs.
Of course, they don’t magically make sex better, but some really do boost body temperature, which makes us more susceptible to getting it on; some provide instant energy; some help produce sex hormones; and still others spark neurotransmitters that trigger feelings of love or arousal.
Next time you’re looking for something a little more than Marvin Gaye and candles to get in the mood, you might want to think about grabbing some silverware and digging into the below foods that can help you feel frisky.
More: A Porn Star’s Top 5 Tips for Sexual Confidence
Vanilla
Vanilla’s power is in its yummy aroma. Even before one morsel reaches the taste buds, the hypothalamus — the gland that controls memory and emotion — springs into action, evoking feelings connected with vanilla’s powerful scent. When consumed, vanilla improves sexual debilitation and kicks the central nervous system into gear, causing sensations to feel even better. Add a few drops of vanilla essence into your bath or devour ice cream made from this sweet bean after dinner.
Avocados
Avocados are superfruits rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, potassium and vitamin B. They’re an amazing source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that may prevent heart disease and promote better blood flow — and make your stomach flatter!
Anything that helps your heart and circulation can also be critical for a healthy sex life. In addition, the vitamin E that is so good for your skin also helps your body churn out hormones likes testosterone, estrogen and progesterone, which circulate in your bloodstream and stimulate sexual responses.
Bananas
Phallic allusions notwithstanding, bananas have a lot to offer when it comes to boosting sex drive. These fruits deliver a punch of potassium, a nutrient key to muscle strength (which might make orgasms extra-intense.) They’re also packed with nutrients like potassium and vitamin B, which are essential to sexual hormone production.
Pomegranates
Pomegranates owe their passion power to antioxidants — they protect the lining of blood vessels, allowing more blood to course through them. The upshot? Increased sensitivity.
Salmon
You probably already know that salmon is a stellar source of omega-3 fatty acids that support a healthy heart as well as shiny hair and glowing skin. But you may not know the connection between steamed fish and a steamy night of passion. Those essential fatty acids also maintain hormone function and may raise dopamine levels in the brain to prime you for optimal arousal.
Hot Chilies
The chemical found in fiery peppers, called capsaicin, increases circulation to get blood pumping and stimulates nerve endings so you’ll feel more turned on.
Strawberries
Good circulation is a benchmark of proper sexual functioning, and these berries are rich in antioxidants that benefit your heart and arteries. Bonus: Try dipping the berries in dark chocolate, another aphrodisiac food, which contains methylxanthines that may activate the libido.
Red wine
Wine is a classic aphrodisiac and a killer mood-setter. Not only does red vino combat free radicals, but it can also boost your libido. But be aware of how much you consume, as excess amounts of wine can lead to drowsiness, which is the last thing you want when trying to get it on.
Chocolate
Pure dark chocolate in particular has a centuries-old reputation as an aphrodisiac. Cocoa contains the chemical phenylethylamine, a stimulant that that sparks dopamine production in the brain and conjures just the sort of subtle feelings of well-being and excitement that make sex seem like a great idea. The neurotransmitters serotonin and anandamide both contribute to feelings of happiness and euphoria during sex. And both are found in chocolate. Yum!
Watermelon
Rich in the plant nutrient citrulline, this summer fruit is known to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and immune systems. Citrulline increases nitric oxide, which opens blood vessels and speeds up circulation, contributing to increased arousal. There is also a study suggesting that watermelon may have Viagra-like effects on the body.
Honey
Honey is filled with B vitamins that support testosterone production, which can increase desire. It also contains the boron used in estrogen production that is important for female desire. Use it to sweeten a cup of tea, some yogurt, your oatmeal, or use it in marinades. If you can, try to use local raw and organic varieties.
Almonds
Almonds have been a symbol of fertility throughout the ages, and — like vanilla — their aroma is thought to induce passion in women. These nuts are a rich source of essential fatty acids like omega-3s, which are needed for the production of hormones like testosterone. They also aid in reproductive function, fertility and a healthy libido.
Cherries
Cherries have a musky scent that is said to stimulate pheromone production. They contain tons of heart-regulating antioxidants, as well as feel-good vitamins A, C and E, plus potassium, which is necessary for producing sexual hormones.
Read more: http://stylecaster.com/12-aphrodisiac-foods-to-eat-for-hotter-sex/#ixzz4VaVl8ZkN
Originally posted on StyleCaster.