With Valentine's Day upon us, here's a quick look at foods said to have an aphrodisiac effect. Aphrodisiac foods have been used as far back as the Romans and the Greeks.
You probably already have many of these foods in your kitchen.
1. Aniseed: The Greeks and Romans believed that aniseed had special powers and some people believe that sucking the seeds will increase your libido.
2. Almond: Throughout the ages, the almond has been a symbol of fertility. Some believe that the aroma stimulates passion in a female.
3. Avocado: The vitamin B6 contained in the avocado is said to increase male hormone production. The avocado also contains potassium which aids in regulating the female thyroid gland.
4. Asparagus: Contains vitamin E, believed to stimulate sex hormones which contribute to a healthy sex life.
5. Bananas: Considered one of the most popular aphrodisiac foods used to stimulate desire. Bananas also contain potassium and B vitamins, essential for sex hormone production.
6. Chili peppers: "Capsaicin," a chemical that stimulates our nerve endings and raises our pulse, is responsible for the "heat" in chili peppers. This aphrodisiac food is also thought to release endorphins, which give our bodies a natural high. Some researchers believe that is the case with all "hot" foods. Garlic is another example of these aphrodisiac foods.
7. Chocolate: Who doesn't know about chocolate as an aphrodisiac food? On Valentine's Day, the day to express your love, more chocolate is sold than at any other time during the year. Chocolate contains a stimulant called phenylethylamine, which gives you a sense of well being and excitement similar to the natural high that endorphins give us. Researchers believe that chocolate contains chemicals that affect neurotransmitters in the brain, and a substance related to caffeine called theobromine.
8. Coffee: Coffee in moderation is a stimulant, but too much causes it to become a depressant. The caffeine in coffee stimulates both mind and body and is sometimes used in preparation for staying up all night.
9. Raw oysters: Oysters have been a favourite aphrodisiac food since the time of Aphrodite during the Greek age. Oysters are a rich source of zinc, a mineral required for testosterone production. This male hormone is believed to increase the female libido as well. Oysters are high in protein and very nutritious.
10. Ginger: Ginger root can be eaten raw, cooked, or crystallized. Ginger is a circulatory system stimulant which can increase sexual powers and desire.
11. Raspberries and strawberries: These are perfect aphrodisiac foods to hand feed your lover. They are red, which is the color associated with love and passion, and are high in vitamin C.
12. Wine: Wine relaxes our inhibitions and stimulates our senses. Moderate amounts of wine are believed to "arouse," but excessive alcohol will make you drowsy.
But I imagine most people would rate good honest TLC as the best Valentine's gift of all. Bear that in mind and enjoy your Valentine's Day!
Acknowledgements: Sourced from www.fuelthemind.com, the dietary, health medical fitness and nutritional information provided is for informational purposes only. Remember, if you need more motivation on a healthy life-style, I offer Health Coaching sessions. Click for health coaching website.
