Natural aphrodisiacs for men
Here’s a list of foods that can help improve your performance. Though none of these are meant to treat health conditions such as erectile dysfunction, these foods possess antioxidants and chemical compounds that have been known to improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, increase libido and improve reproductive health. While a boost to sexual performance may be your immediate goal, overall sexual wellness requires a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.
Coffee
Caffeine opens up blood vessels in the body, which may improve blood flow. A 2015 study shows that men who drank 2 to 3 cups of coffee daily had a lower incidence of erectile dysfunction than non-coffee drinkers. Coffee contains vitamins and minerals such as riboflavin and magnesium that help the body function. It also has antioxidants that help protect against diseases like cancer. Moderate amounts of coffee (up to 3 cups per day) may even lower your risk of diabetes and depression. Though coffee does not cure ED, a few cups a day may improve your overall health which is an important factor in your sexual and reproductive health.
Oysters
These shellfish may boost your testosterone levels and help with your sex drive. They're full of zinc, a nutrient your body needs. A study finds that zinc has a positive effect on arousal and maintaining an erection. A note of caution: Consuming raw or under cooked oysters may cause illness and fatality. Ensure they are from a trusted source and prepared well.
Dark Chocolate
Rich in flavanols, plant nutrients that can increase blood flow and lower blood pressure, chocolate is good for the heart and other body parts. An ounce a few times a week makes a healthy treat. Chocolate helps your body make more of nitric oxide which widens blood vessels to allow more blood to flow through. It works by relaxing the inner muscles of blood vessels allowing more blood to go through and fill out penile chambers. It produces engorgement and strong erections. One study shows nitric oxide also increases libido.
Watermelon
This sweet, refreshing fruit has citronella which helps to release amino acids and arginine in the body, compounds that may rev up your sex drive. It is loaded with lycopene, an antioxidant that’s good for your heart, prostate, and skin. Studies show lycopene could have protective effects against prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Strawberries and Raspberries
The seeds of strawberries and raspberries are loaded with zinc which improves sexual desire and performance. Further, a study shows that a good sense of smell is important to the libido especially in younger men. Zinc improves the olfactory sense.
Avocados
Avocados comprise of folic acid as well as Vitamin B6. Both of these nutrients are considered essential to a healthy sex life as they help to increase sex drive and stamina. Folic acid pumps the body with energy and Vitamin B6 stabilizes the hormones.
Almonds and Walnuts
High in arginine, an amino acid your body uses to make nitric oxide, walnuts are also a good source of vitamin E, folic acid and fiber. They improve the quality of the sperm, its overall shape, vitality and movement making men more fertile. Don’t add more than a few small handfuls to your daily diet, though. Nuts are high in calories.
Grape Juice and Pomegranate Juice
Nutrients in these juices increase the amount of nitric oxide in your body. The compound plays a signaling role in vascular relaxation and are associated with better blood flow and lower blood pressure.
Garlic
These strong smelling bulbs help keep your arteries clear and free of plaque. When plaque forms on the walls of the arteries, blood flow could be cut off or reduced. Activity between the sheets requires good blood flow. There is nothing wrong with garlic especially if all parties consume it.
Salmon
Fatty fish like Salmon are great sources of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which may boost nitric oxide in your body. They’ll lower your blood pressure and your risks for heart attack and blood clots. Aim for 8 ounces of a fatty fish a week. Sardines, fresh albacore tuna, and mackerel are other good sources of omega-3s.
Kale
Leafy greens such as kale are nitric oxide boosters. Aside from the possible benefits to your sex life, leafy greens are nutritional powerhouses. They’re packed with vitamins, minerals and omega-3s.
Hot Peppers
You might spice up your love life by adding some chili peppers to your diet. Capsaicin which gives cayennes, jalapenos, habaneros, and other peppers their heat, relaxes the arteries, and helps blood flow to the heart and other organs, including the penis. Chilies can also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol and prevent blood clots.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
A study shows that EVOO may boost testosterone levels and increase luteinizing hormone, which stimulates cells in the testes to produce testosterone. Olive oil is also full of the good-for-you monounsaturated fats that reduces bad cholesterol in your blood and lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. It also provides nutrients to help develop and maintain your body's cells. EVOO is better than regular olive oil because the olives are pressed without chemicals or high heat which preserves the healthy antioxidants.