Healthy Aphrodisiacs For Valentine's Day
Try These Sexy and Healthy Foods
Despite the scientific evidence, many nutritionists and dieticians ascribe aphrodisiac qualities to various foods, for various reasons. From almonds to watermelon, then, check out our guide to foods that are definitely good for your health and that might help get you and your partner in the mood...
Almonds
"So many nutritional benefits to almonds: they are high in healthy monounsaturated fats and a top food source of the antioxidant vitamin E, which helps support a healthy heart. They have 6 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per ounce (about 23 nuts), which means they are a satiating snack that can help with weight management. Almonds have long been known as an aphrodisiac and symbol of fertility. The healthy fats found in almonds have been shown to increase fertility."
Try our Chocolate Almond Smoothie recipe
Jessica Fishman Levinson, registered dietician
Asparagus
"It is believed French couples once enjoyed three courses of asparagus the eve of their wedding in hopes of increasing libido for the big night. Aside from its suggestive shape, the aphrodisiac properties of asparagus have also been associated with its high content of vitamin E and folate. Vitamin E is known as the 'sex vitamin,' because it helps stimulate production of sex hormones and can improve blood flow throughout the body, including to the genitalia. Folate has been shown to boost both sperm count and quality, and aids in histamine production, which has been linked with a healthy sex drive."
Try our Baked Asparagus recipe
Charlotte Martin
Chile Peppers
"How did you feel the last time you ate chile peppers? Chances are you remember a feeling of warmth coming over you or maybe you even broke into a sweat. Due to the chemical known as capsaicin in the chiles, some of the physiological reactions that occur when eating them can mimic sexual arousal. For example, the heat produced by the capsaicin makes you feel warm and flushed (maybe even sweating), the increased circulation from the heat can speed up your heart rate, and you may begin to feel tingly. It also releases the feel-good chemicals in the body known as endorphins. Warmth, quickened pulse, tingly, and feeling good from eating chiles...the rest is up to you."
Try our Marinated Olives with Fennel, Lemon, and Chile Pepper recipe
Deborah Orlick Levy, registered dietician and Carrington Farms' Health and Nutrition Consultant
Chocolate
"Chocolate makes you feel good so it can help put you in the mood. In addition it contains special compounds that increase blood flow, so why not indulge?"
Karen Ansel, registered dietician
Crab
"You've likely heard that oysters are a natural aphrodisiac because they're a top source of zinc, a mineral that helps promote healthy levels of testosterone. But people often don't realize crab is a top source too. Three ounces of cooked crab deliver a third of your daily dose."
Karen Ansel
Ginger
"Ginger is thought to be an aphrodisiac because it is a stimulant to the circulatory system and increases blood flow. Ginger is also effective in relieving nausea and reducing inflammation, thanks to anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. Plus, it adds wonderful flavor in cooking!"
Try our Quick and Easy Pickled Ginger recipe
Jessica Fishman Levinson, registered dietician
Maca Powder
"Maca, also known as Peruvian ginseng, originates from the maca plant root native to Peru. Studies find maca may augment stamina and energy and increase libido, sperm count, and fertility."
Oysters
"Oysters are known for their high zinc content, which stimulates blood flow and may aid sexual performance and arousal. Researchers have also found that oysters contain two particular amino acids, D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), which boost sexual hormones and increase testosterone levels."
Try our Grilled Diablo Oysters recipe.
Marissa Lippert
Pine Nuts
"Pine nuts are high in zinc, a key mineral for male fertility. Like other nuts, they are a good source of monounsaturated fat, which can improve heart health and management of type 2 diabetes."
Try our Chicken Breast Stuffed with Spinach, Feta, and Pine Nuts recipe
Jessica Fishman Levinson
Pomegranates
"Pomegranates have been associated with fertility and abundance due to their many seeds, known as arils. Antioxidants in pomegranate arils support blood flow, which is important for sexual health. There is also some research showing that pomegranate juice may improve erectile dysfunction. Nutritionally, pomegranates are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and a good source of potassium, folate, and copper."
Try our Pomegranate Martini recipe
Jessica Fishman Levinson
Watermelon
"Watermelon is like nature's Viagra. It's rich in citrulline, an amino acid that enhances blood flow throughout your body and to your sex organs."
Try our Refreshing Watermelon-Feta Salad recipe
Karen Ansel