Valentine’s Day is just around the corner – the perfect time to improve intimacy. A healthy love life has been linked to better overall well-being, including numerous cognitive benefits. My husband, Dr. Daniel Amen, wrote the book on it, literally! It’s called The Brain in Love*. If your passion is lagging, it’s time to find ways to rekindle your desires. In many instances, all you have to do is open the refrigerator door.
Here are 5 foods that can fire up your libido, to help you enjoy the intimate relationship that you deserve.
5 Foods That Can Fire Up Your Libido
Avocados
Avocados are rich in vitamin B6, which acts like an anti-stress agent to counteract the frayed nerves that can have you saying, “Not tonight, honey.” The healthy monounsaturated fats in avocados may also boost the production of testosterone, a hormone that’s important for both men and women.
Maca
Part of the brassica family—broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage—maca is widely available in a powder form that you can add to your smoothies. Used for fighting everything from low energy to brain fog, it’s also seen as a remedy for low libido. A study in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that maca enhances sensual desire and function.
Celery
If you want to find your man more attractive, you may want to feed him some celery. It increases the secretion of pheromones, scented chemical substances that can make a person more (or less) attractive to potential mates. Celery contains the steroids androstanol and androstenene, causing men to emit more pheromones, which may make your mate seem even sexier to you.
Ginseng
If you or your significant other is looking for some help in the love department, try some ginseng. A scientific study showed that ginseng, and especially a variety known as Korean red ginseng, enhanced arousal in postmenopausal women. And research shows ginseng can also improve function in men with erectile dysfunction issues.
Dark Chocolate
Eating dark chocolate increases dopamine, which can boost the release of oxytocin, one of the feel-good chemicals released when making love. I recommend sticking with a small amount of sugar-free chocolate that’s at least 70% cocoa.
For other secrets to a more fulfilling love life, click here to listen to our podcast on intimacy with Dr. Emily Morse.
