Happy Valentine’s Day!
Every year around this time I get asked by patients and the media alike about aphrodisiacs. Are they real? Do they really affect your mood? What foods will make you feel all loved up? Instead of leaving you wondering when you should instead be planning a romantic weekend, I’m answering all your questions right here and now!
What are aphrodisiacs and are they fact or fiction?
An aphrodisiac is a substance that increases sexual desire. The name comes from Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of sexuality and love. Throughout history, many foods, drinks, and behaviors have had a reputation for making sex more attainable and/or pleasurable. People debate aphrodisiacs a lot at this time of year but as the saying goes ”You are what you eat,” because what you eat directly influences your body and the way your body functions.
This means the food you consume can have a direct impact on your sex life, affecting your hormones, brain chemistry and energy and stress levels. Some foods have psychoactive properties, others arouse because they are psychologically suggestive, and some can actually increase blood flow to the genitals!
Are there reasons some foods are considered aphrodisiacs?
Some foods are considered aphrodisiacs because of the way they are shaped and look. As you know, our senses play a large part in how we feel inside and out, and the look, taste and touch of something can be a powerful stimulating aphrodisiac.
What are some common aphrodisiacs and how do they work?
CHOCOLATE
Let’s start with the good stuff! Cacao aka chocolate, the king of natural aphrodisiacs, contains a host of compounds including anandamide, the psychoactive feel-good chemical, and PEA (phenylethylamine), the “love chemical,” which releases dopamine in the pleasure centers of the brain and peaks during orgasm. PEA is said to help induce feelings of excitement, attraction and euphoria. Cacao also contains tryptophan, a key component of the brain neurotransmitter serotonin which promotes a sense of well-being and relaxation.
OYSTERS
Oysters are probably the most famous aphrodisiac, and most people are aware of their reputation for increasing sexual desire. Throughout history oysters have been thought an aphrodisiac because of their high zinc content, which helps produce sperm and increases libido.
HONEY
Honey is a great source of boron, a trace mineral that helps the body use and metabolize estrogen – one of the main female sex hormones. Studies have shown that honey may also enhance testosterone levels in the blood. And testosterone is the hormone responsible for promoting sex drive and orgasm in both men and women.
BANANAS
This wonder fruit isn’t just for smoothies and cereal anymore! Bananas are loaded with potassium, magnesium and B vitamins and contain chelating minerals and bromeliad enzyme – which is said to enhance male libido.
BASIL
Basil not only makes meals smell and taste better, but has beneficial effects on the body. It is said that basil’s aroma has a stimulating and aphrodisiac effect. Using sweet basil in a pasta sauce will be sure to get your heart racing! Maybe this explains why Italians are so romantic!
GARLIC
For those of you planning on smooching this Valentine’s Day, I can only imagine what you’re thinking: Yuck, but garlic is so strong! Garlic is full of allicin, an ingredient that increases blood flow. So, whip up an extra-garlicky dish and keep the Altoids handy.
Not satisfied yet? Here are a couple more that may surprise you…
ASPARAGUS
An English herbalist once wrote that asparagus “stirs up lust in man and woman.” In the 1800s in France, bridegrooms were served three courses of the sexy spears at their prenuptial dinners. Apparently for good reason, as asparagus is a great source of potassium, fiber, Vitamin B6, vitamin A, Vitamin C, thiamin and folic acid. Folic acid is believed to boost histamine production necessary for the ability to reach orgasm in both sexes.
ALMONDS
Through antiquity, almonds were regarded as fertility symbols. The aroma of almond arouses passion in females — or so thought the poets and scribes. Scientists say almonds provide high doses of vitamin E, magnesium and fiber. Therefore, there seems to be something in the almond myths after all.
There’s so many choices to get you in the mood for love! Pick your favorites, get to the grocery store, and get your romance on!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
XO
Dr. V