Lets talk about SEX!

What you eat effects all areas of your life, and that includes your SEX LIFE! Aphrodisiacs have been around since the beginning of time, and there is a lot of truth to their effects! If you are having trouble in the bedroom one of the first places you might want to look is your dinner table. There are many rumors out there, so I'm going to attempt to clear some of them up.

Oysters have been given the sexy reputation of helping couples all over the world improve their action between the sheets - but is it true? Yes, but maybe not for the reasons you think. The largest portion of their aphrodisiac effect comes from the fact that it looks like a......umm......vagina. Think about it......yep, sure does. Also, the slimy texture probably doesn't hurt:) The way a food looks, smells, tastes, and even the way it feels plays a crucial role in its aphrodisiac effect.

There is a large mental factor here too - many "aphrodisiacs" are simply playing off their placebo effect.
Girl thinks: "I want to be in the mood for some boogie woogie tonight. What can I do? Oh, I'll prepare oysters."
So, what do you think happens? She buys oysters and BAM! she gets busy with her man. The oysters get the credit here, but in actuality, she probably put herself in the mood.

Don't worry, on top of this placebo effect there is some actual science here. Oysters are rich in zinc which is essential to testosterone production, sperm maintenance, and in sustaining female lubrication. Seafood in general is high in zinc, but unfortunately not all seafood resembles the female vulva. Hilarious word, had to throw it in there.

Nuts (haha) are another food that are very high in zinc, but their aphrodisiac reputation comes from another nutrient. Nuts are very high in Omega-3's. You avid readers out there have read about Omega 3s' health benefits. Along with those, it is also a precursor for prostaglandin, a hormone-like substance that plays a key role in sexual health. The Italians swear by pine nuts, but pecans, almonds, and walnuts are also great options. So, what else?

Watermelons contain large amounts of citrulline. Like erectile dysfunction drugs, it relaxes blood vessels. However, its not organ specific (guys) and most of it is in the inedible rind - but its worth a shot!

Chili peppers contain cassaicin, a chemical irritant that increases heart rate, respiratory rate, sweating, and blood flow - mimicking the arousal response. Basically, you can use any hot spice to fake your way into feeling spicy:)

Chocolate is the most researched aphrodisiac by far. The 2006 Journal of Sexual Medicine found that women who habitually ate chocolate reported higher sexual function. Neurotransmitters serotonin and anandamide contribute to feelings of happiness and euphoria during sex - chocolate contains both. Thank you Hersey's!

For those of you who are more literal, just a good ole' fashioned reminder might help. AKA - foods that resemble the real thing. Bananas, peaches, melons, oysters.....can't think of any more, but you get the picture!

If you are planning a romantic night that includes dinner and you are wanting an after party, then stay away from high fat foods, especially red meat. Animal protein takes a loooooooonnnnnnngggggg time to digest and can leave you feeling sluggish and tired. Not a good combo when you are wanting some bow chicka wow wow.

Yes, food is highly related to sexual health, but honestly, the most effective way to increase drive is to increase overall health. Being overweight decreases circulation, and if you have decreased blood flow, that means you aren't getting the appropriate amount of blood flow needed for arousal. No stiff for your stiffy, if you catch my drift. Also, if you are over-stressed, on oral contraceptives, or habitually drinking alcohol you could be depleting your stores of B vitamins. This can lead to decreased sexual health. Increase your intake of whole grains, beans, and leafy vegetables to get your B vitamins back on track.

So, the perfect dinner? Start with a dark green salad topped with pine nuts and your favorite dressing. Pan sear chili pepper-seasoned salmon in olive oil, add a side of oysters, red wine to drink (but not too much), and dark chocolate for desert. After that, you and your partner will be down to get down.

Happy Friday!!!!!