Over time, many stories have emerged about the power of certain foods to enhance sexuality—but from a scientific standpoint, much of the evidence may simply be attributed to a placebo effect.
An aphrodisiac is any substance that increases sexual desire. The term comes from the name of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Therefore, an aphrodisiac food or drink is one that, when consumed, is believed to boost libido and make sexual experiences more pleasurable.
Some foods considered aphrodisiacs contain cholesterol, the sterol precursor of sex hormones.
- Testosterone, in both men and women, is the main hormone linked to libido.
- Estrogens also play a role in sexual response, especially in women. A deficiency in estrogen can lead to reduced sexual drive and vaginal dryness, while estrogen dominance (too much estrogen or too little progesterone) can also lower libido.
Both estrogen and testosterone levels naturally decline during menopause.
Two key neurotransmitters involved in sexual desire are dopamine and serotonin:
- Dopamine is synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine, using vitamin B6, folic acid, and copper as cofactors. It’s linked to the brain’s pleasure system, promoting feelings of enjoyment and reward.
- Serotonin, mostly produced in the gut, influences mood and behavior; low levels are associated with depression.
A diet low in fiber, high in refined sugars, and deficient in quality fats and nutrients, along with immune dysfunction, liver overload, chemical exposure, excess body fat (over 28% in women), physical inactivity, and chronic stress, can disrupt hormonal balance and reduce sexual desire.
To support dopamine and hormone production, it’s essential to include tyrosine-rich foods such as:
- Meats, fish, and eggs
- Vegetables and legumes
- Apples, asparagus, avocados, carrots, spinach, parsley, watercress, watermelon, and almonds
Sexual desire also has a strong psychological element. As sexologist Luz Jaimes explains, cultivating erotic thoughts and fantasies is key to awakening desire. However, routine, stress, and daily obligations can easily suppress sexual motivation.
Is it aphrodisiac foods, an aphrodisiac diet, or rather an aphrodisiac lifestyle that truly enhances desire?
- Exercise regularly.
- Reduce sugar and refined flour intake.
- Check your hormones—keep your estrogen/progesterone balance in check.
- Eat tyrosine-rich foods such as meat, avocado, carrots, and watermelon.
- And most importantly… don’t be afraid to have sexual thoughts!
References:
http://dspace.bc.uepb.edu.br/jspui/handle/123456789/10108
http://www.medigraphic.com/pdfs/juarez/ju-2006/ju061f.pdf
https://books.google.co.ve/books?hl=es&lr=&id=xw6KnNnirPwC&oi=fnd&pg=PA11&dq=dieta+afrodita&ots=7GXCZlGnvF&sig=m55ucrkV3P1D8i-_rA6Q8dE3N-k#v=onepage&q=dieta%20afrodita&f=false
NutriWhite Editorial Team
