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Healthy Meets Sexy: 5 Aphrodisiac Foods
Is there anything sexier than a chocolate-dipped strawberry in summer? Or maybe your love language is acts of service, and a sexy image is someone picking out the individual pomegranate seeds for you to enjoy. I find the crack of the sugar glaze on a vanilla custard pretty enticing, but whatever it is for you, I think we can agree that food can be sexy.
The fascinating thing is that these same foods can help bring your sexy back.
You know the libido you once had. It’s still inside– waiting to enjoy an orgasm that you deserve. Yeah, I said it, we all need a little more Vitamin O in our lives because that is the sign of a healthy endocrine system.
I wrote about my 10 favorite aphrodisiac foods in this blog, so be sure to get the full list, but I'm adding five more that I think need to be considered for your optimal hormonal health.
My choices for these five foods include ones that remind us of the beauty in the human form and those that promote a healthy fertile body. An aphrodisiac, by definition, is a food, drink, or drug that stimulates sexual desire. So, this is a fun food list where healthy meets sexy.
1. Chocolate
Throughout history, chocolate has been associated with love and romance. Ancient civilizations, such as the Aztecs, believed that chocolate had aphrodisiac properties. Montezuma, the Aztec ruler supposedly drank 50 cups of chocolate each day to satisfy his harem of 600 women.
The act of sharing and gifting chocolate has become a symbol of affection, making it a popular choice for romantic gestures.
Often referred to as the "love chemical," phenylethylamine or PEA is a natural compound found in dark chocolate, associated with feelings of pleasure and happiness, creating a sense of euphoria. PEA is an endocannabinoid and can reduce the sensation of pain in the brain, contributing to the uplifting and romantic effects of consuming dark chocolate.
How to Eat It
Incorporating high-quality, dark chocolate into your diet in moderation can not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also contribute to a romantic ambiance. Chocolate is packed with antioxidants, flavonoids, and a touch of caffeine, all of which can enhance focus, mood, and cognitive plus physical function.
Recipe
Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake (foodfoundation.com)
2. Pomegranate
Pomegranates have long been associated with fertility, abundance, and prosperity in various cultures. Their many seeds are a symbol of fertility and the potential for new life.
Research suggests that pomegranates have a positive impact on the heart, improving circulation which is essential for overall well-being. Pomegranates may enhance blood flow to areas associated with arousal and intimacy too.
Pomegranates are full of antioxidants, tannins, anthocyanidins, and polyphenols well known for reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and inflammation. Eating pomegranates may help reduce blood pressure, help you feel relaxed, and enhance a positive mood, indirectly leading to romantic experiences.
How to Eat It
From salads to desserts and even beverages, the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate can elevate a variety of dishes. A pomegranate makes a delicious, healthy snack on its own, but also makes a great topping on yogurt, oatmeal, salads, and quinoa bowls.
Recipe
Chia Muesli With Seasonal Fruit (foodfoundation.com)
3. Maca
Nicknamed, “the Peruvian Viagra,'' maca is a sweet root vegetable growing mainly in central Peru’s mountains. Maca is related to cruciferous vegetables and has many of the same health benefits, including boosting fertility.
Maca is an adaptogen that influences hormone regulation by supporting balance in the endocrine system. It has been clinically studied in menopausal women who experienced a stimulation in estrogen and progesterone which reduced many of the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause.
How to Eat It
Maca is commonly available in powder form, making it easy to incorporate into various recipes. It has a slightly nutty and earthy flavor that blends well with smoothies or oatmeal. Supplements in the form of capsules or tinctures are also available for those who prefer a more convenient option.
Recipe
Green Maca Smoothie (dontwastethecrumbs.com)
4. Chili Peppers
Chili peppers have long been regarded as symbols of passion and lust in various cultures. Their fiery nature and the intensity of their flavor contribute to their association with love and desire. Capsaicin, the compound that gives hot chilies their spiciness, stimulates nerve endings on the tongue and triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. The warming sensation can lead to an increased heart rate and mild sweating, mimicking physical responses associated with arousal.
How to Eat It
Chili peppers are versatile and can be incorporated into various dishes, from savory to sweet. Whether used in spicy sauces, salsas, or chocolate-infused creations, chili peppers can add a unique and exciting dimension to meals. Experiment with different types of chili peppers, such as cayenne, jalapeño, or even the hotter varieties like habanero, depending on the level of heat you prefer.
Recipe
Paleo Pumpkin Chili (foodfoundation.com)
5. Vanilla
The vanilla pod, with its resemblance to the vaginal canal, has long been associated with aphrodisiacs. Vanilla is the edible portion of an orchid plant and is considered both a fruit and a spice. It contains a compound called vanillin, which has been studied for its potential impact on neurotransmitters in the brain. Some research suggests that vanilla may influence serotonin levels, promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation.
How to Eat It
Vanilla can be incorporated into everything from baked goods to beverages. Its ability to complement and enhance the flavors of other ingredients makes it a popular choice for both sweet and savory dishes.
Recipe
Stewed strawberries with vanilla bean and fresh mint (nourishedkitchen.com)
Food is not only medicine; it’s your entire makeup. We can eat inflammatory foods that make us feel bloated and in pain, or we can eat vibrant foods that make us feel radiant. Food can be both healthy and sexy–and so can you!