Aphrodisiac Foods: Good for your body & your love life!

 
            In honor of Valentine’s Day this week, I decided to share with you some foods that are considered “Aphrodisiacs” or love-boosters.

Here is a list of 12 common foods that may contribute to a healthy love life and who knows, you may already be spicing up your libido without even knowing it!

 

1.      Fresh Chili Peppers:  Contain Capsaicin which is known to increase circulation, blood flow and stimulate nerve endings

2.      Pomegranate: Full of antioxidants that keep the blood pumping and blood flow strong

3.      Bananas: Besides their suggestive shape (ah-hem) this fruit is bursting with potassium, an essential mineral for muscle strength and contractions

4.      Avocado: Loaded with Vitamin E which is needed to make the hormones that stimulate sexual responses

5.      Chocolate:  Contains phenyethylamine, a chemical that stimulates feelings of excitement and well-being

6.      Oysters: (A little cliché but…) these seductive bivalve mollusks have lots of zinc, a mineral that’s essential for testosterone production which can boost sex drive in men

7.      Red Wine: Packed full of resveratrol,an antioxidant that increases blood flow and improves circulation (Remember, moderation is key- too much alcohol can depress your system and lead to decreased sensitivity and decreased blood flow)

8.      Salmon: Contains lots of healthy Omega-3 fatty acids which help keep sex hormone production at peak

9.      Vanilla: This delicious bean is known to stimulate nerve endings and increase your body’s response to sensation- plus it smells good too!

10.   Watermelon: This juicy fruit is full of citrulline,  a phyto-nutrient that relaxes blood vessels allowing for increased circulation

11.  Garlic: Don’t let the smell deter you- The compound Allicin  found in garlic is known to stimulate blood flow-just make sure you both are indulging so no one is offended by the odor (LOL)

12.  Almonds: Historically, the aroma of almonds is said to “arouse passion”, however it’s the Vitamin E, Magnesium and Fiber that really get the blood circulating and keep your muscles contracting.

 

So do aphrodisiac foods really work?  I guess you’ll just have to eat up and find out for yourself!

 And be sure to try my recipe for “The Perfect Valentine’s Day Dinner”

           “Sensual Salmon”

Ingredients:

2-pieces Wild-caught Salmon

4 cloves of garlic, chopped

1 red or green chili pepper, chopped

Olive oil or cooking spray

Directions: Preheat oven to 375

Spray a baking pan or lightly coat with olive oil.

Mix chopped garlic and chilies’ with 1 tbsp olive oil in a small bowl

Place the salmon in the baking pan and top with the chili/garlic/olive oil mix

Bake at 375 for 15-20 minutes, until fish is tender and flaky.

 *Bonus* Serve with your favorite red wine

 And…For dessert try a
 
Fresh Watermelon and Basil Martini

 Directions:

1. Smash one cup of fresh watermelon with a spoon or fork until juicy

2. Mix in 2 oz of your favorite vodka

3. Pour into two martini glasses and top with club soda. 

4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve