Sexy Foods: Your Edible Aphrodisiacs

By Joy DavisGlee ContributorUpdated: Saturday, March 3, 2007
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Skip the love potions and toss the Viagra -- a simple trip to the grocery store may be all you need to make your sex life sizzle like never before. Just put some anchovies, oysters and licorice in the cart and you may be well on your way to a recipe for love. But is it really that simple, and does it work?
The notion that certain foods are natural aphrodisiacs with libido-lifting qualities is almost as old as time itself. In fact, the ancient Greeks used aphrodisiacs for age-old problems like relieving sexual anxieties, increasing fertility and boosting sexual performance. In those times, Casanova had the skinny on erotic edibles. As legend has it, he seduced a virgin by sliding an oyster from his lips to hers, arousing her sexual appetite. But before you dismiss it as mere myth, there’s logic behind the folklore. Oysters are high in zinc, which boosts testosterone levels -- a hormone important for the sexual functioning of both men and women.
While there is no sound scientific proof that aphrodisiacs exist, new studies are slowly backing up the love-food phenomena. Researchers are discovering some foods contain certain vitamins and minerals that can serve as sexual stimulants and are associated with a healthy libido. Translation: Eating the right food can turn up the heat in the bedroom. But of course, the proof is in the pudding. Check out these sexy foods and watch the sparks fly.
Chili can literally heat things up fast because of something called capsaicin -- it’s the active ingredient that gives a spicy kick to peppers, curries and flavorfully hot foods. It’s said to work by increasing blood flow to certain areas of the body and facilitating sexual performance. The hot spices raise the heart rate and release the "feel-good" endorphins that give you the feeling of having a natural high.
Chocolate, another popular aphrodisiac contains a substance called phenylalanine -- an amino acid known for raising the body's endorphins. Try a few pieces for a tantalizing boost before or during sex.
The Chinese have used licorice for medicinal purposes in ancient times. Licorice is supposedly 50 times sweeter than sugar, which makes it particularly stimulating to the senses. Licorice is said to be especially erotic for women.
Celery is not the first food that comes to mind when you think of sexy foods, but don’t underestimate its potential for passion. It can be a great sexual stimulator because it contains androsterone, a hormone released through male perspiration that supposedly turns us on. Ladies, need a little incentive with your partner? Serve him up a celery salad and slip into something comfortable…
Nutmeg has been highly praised by Chinese women as an aphrodisiac. In large quantities nutmeg can produce a hallucinogenic effect. Try sprinkling a light touch of nutmeg in a warm pumpkin soup -- to help spice up your evening -- or carry some in your purse for a date gone wrong.
Asparagus has been regarded as symbol of fertility throughout the ages because of its suggestive shape. It’s also high in vitamin E, which supplies oxygen to the sexual organs. Try feeding your lover steamed spears for a sensual experience.
Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and B vitamins, which are known to help men and women reach orgasm and improve sexual stamina. Bananas also contain bromelain enzyme, which is believed to improve the male libido. Ladies, if he’s a little sluggish in the passion department, make him a delicious banana milkshake with each meal -- and drink some yourself.
Unsexy foods, or foods that can affect the libido negatively, can wreak havoc in the bedroom. Just as certain foods can stimulate sexual desire, these foods deter from it. To make sure your engine’s always performing at peak level, avoid consuming too many carbohydrates, fats, alcohol and fried foods. Other no-no’s include overindulging in carbs and fats, which can lead to hardening of the arteries and decreased circulation to the genitals. In men, too much fried food can cause a buildup of trans fats, which can decrease testosterone and increase abnormal sperm. Also keep away from foods that are processed and high in sugar and salt. They can lead to difficulty in reaching orgasm and a lack of interest in sex.
Ready to serve up some sexy food? Light the candles, put on some Barry White and start the romance in the kitchen -- good lovin' is on the menu tonight.
Joy Davis is a freelance writer who specializes in holistic wellness, fitness and travel. Several of her articles have also appeared in City Smart Magazine.