Our fatty diets are contributing to our not-so-great sex lives? Maybe so, says “Eat This, Not That” author David Zinczenko. Check out the following treats to see what will leave you begging for more and what will send you running for the door.
Bananas – Begging for More
No, it’s not just the suggestive shape — the healthy doses of potassium and B vitamins in bananas help boost the production of important sex hormones.
Oysters-Running for the Door
It’s a myth! This sensual food has been credited for increasing men’s libido due to high levels of iodine and zinc — iodine can help boost respiration and body temperature, and zinc boosts testosterone. In fact, a team of American and Italian researchers recently found that mussels, clams, and oysters deliver two types of amino acids that spark a rush of sex hormones. But in order for it to work, a guy has to eat at least 50 oysters in one sitting, and nothing kills the mood like overeating shellfish.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries – Begging for More
This sexy combo isn’t just a Valentine’s Day gimmick. The phenyl ethylamine in chocolate releases the same hormone released during sex, and strawberries contain vitamin C, which helps libido. Plus, Italian researchers found that women who often eat chocolate have a higher sex drive than those who don’t. Just make sure the chocolate you’re using has at least 60 percent cacao for the maximum benefit.
Chili Peppers – Running for the Door
You might think that a food that makes you so hot and bothered would get you ready to go, but there’s no research out there to suggest that chilies do anything for your libido.
Saffron – Begging for More
The luxuriant spice has been found to work as an antidepressant and a pain-blocker — both these effects can help calm any desire-killing storms. Saffron also contains picrocrocin, a chemical that makes your body more sensitive to the touch. New addition to my grocery list!
Pomegranate – Begging for More
Pomegranate contains boatloads of antioxidants, which can help increase blood flow to all parts of the body, including the genitals.
Asparagus – Begging for More
It may not seem like a sexy veggie (considering it makes your pee smell), but asparagus is one of the oldest aphrodisiacs out there. And for good reason — asparagus is packed with vitamin E, which stimulates the production of sex hormones. Well, let’s get it on then.
Sirloin Steak – Begging for More
A 6-oz. sirloin is a fantastic source of protein, which boosts dopamine and norepinephrine, chemicals that heighten sensitivity. It’s also packed with zinc, which boosts libido by reducing the production of mood-killing prolactin.
Vanilla Ice Cream – Begging for More!
Not only has the scent of vanilla been found to put people in the mood, the calcium and phosphorus in the ice cream build muscles’ energy reserves, boost libido and make orgasms more powerful. Oh yeah!
Tomatoes – Running for the Door
They’re great for your heart, but tomatoes’ lycopene and phytofluene can decrease testosterone levels. The effect isn’t dramatic, but you may be better off skipping the marinara sauce if you want to get saucy.