12 Libido-Boosting Foods for a Healthy Sex Life

If you’re looking to boost your libido, enhance performance and intensify your overall sexual experience, look no further than your grocery shopping cart. Research suggests that the foods you consume can affect sexual desire, functioning and experience so consider making a few adjustments to your diet in the name of better sex.

We’ve curated this list of foods to support libido and sexual functioning, so considering adding these healthy and tasty options to your diet and let us know if you experience any noticeable changes:

Beet juice is popular among athletes and its nitrate content is associated with improved circulation and muscle oxygenation — both of which support sexual functioning. Some studies have found that drinking one to two cups per day improves physical performance and can reduce hypertension.

Coffee, consumed in moderation, may be just what the doctor ordered for an active, healthy sex life. A University of Texas study of 4000 men found that men who consume two cups of caffeinated drinks per day are 42 percent less likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction. Researchers believe the correlation may be related to a caffeine’s role in a chemical reaction that relaxes muscles to increase penile blood flow.

Acai berries may offer similar benefits. Not only are they vitamin rich and packed with calcium, iron and potassium, but they also offer the benefits of plant sterols, which are associated with relaxed blood vessels and improved circulation.

Truffles may be costly, but just a small amount adds intense flavor to a range of dishes including comfort foods like mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. They’re believed to contain androstanol, a pheromone secreted to induce mating-like behavior and their seductive scent makes them an undeniable aphrodisiac.

Salmon and other fatty fish are also associated with improved sexual functioning, as they contain omega-3 fatty acids which may benefit your heart and are associated with an increase dopamine levels (based on animal studies). Dopamine serves a range of functions, but is associated with feelings of pleasure and reward and is also involved in motivation, cognition, sleep and mood — all of which interest with libido and sexual performance.

Superfoods are rich in nutrients that provide protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and omega 3 fats which are connected to overall energy and vitality. Some tasty examples include coconut, cacao, goji berries and kale. If you find that you’re often too tired for sex, consider adding superfoods to your diet — you can toss them into baked goods, cereal or smoothies without an overhaul of your regular food routine.

Saffron — the world’s most expensive spice. A Canadian review of 150 international studies found that saffron has been shown to enhance sexual performance and satisfaction. Add saffron to rice, quinoa, soups and meat dishes for extra flavor that packs a libido-boosting punch.

Chocolate has long been associated with sex as both an aphrodisiac and a sensual bedroom prop. It is believed to contain phenylethylamine, which is associated with elevating your mood to support both a happy relationship and a healthy sex drive. Most of us don’t need an excuse to eat more chocolate, but if you do, try adding a square of 70% dark chocolate to your after-dinner routine to see if it affects your mood and desire levels.

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Oysters are rich in both zinc and amino acids which are associated with the production of testosterone and other sex hormones. They’re also one of the most erotic foods to eat with a lover, as you’re forced to suck, slurp and lick their sensual forms into your mouth using your tongue, lips and breath.

Fresh fruit juice, though we don’t have any studies specifically tying diet to the taste of genital fluids, experienced “tasters” (e.g. adult film starts) report that those who consume diets rich in fruits and vegetables tend to have a sweeter taste. They also suggest that smoking, caffeine and preservatives can result in a more bitter taste. Try pineapple, apple and papaya and see if your partner can taste the difference.

Spice rack staples like cloves, sage and nutmeg may also enhance sexual desire and stimulation. And though the lab experiments with these three spices with rats have yet to be replicated in humans, anecdotal accounts suggest that even their scent can induce arousal, so consider adding them to soups, stews and sauces and allowing their aromas to spread throughout your home and into your bedroom.

Avocados are a superfood loaded with nutrients and vitamins. They’re believed to promote oxygenation of cells and circulation, which are essential to sexual response (e.g. erections, lubrication, arousal). Try baking an egg in a halved avocado or smashing avocado on toasted bread with a squeeze of lime, chilli powder and a few fried onions. You can also use avocado in baked goods, smoothies, salads and sandwiches to add flavour, moisture and a sex-supporting kick.