Loss of libido is something we might not even admit to our best friends, least of all our partners. So many of my clients mourn the loss their libido as they go through menopause, sometimes earlier. However, all is not lost for sure and here are some great libido-boosting foods.
Not only is watermelon super nutritious, it will get your juices flowing all ways around. Watermelon is such as tasty fruit but it also contains an amino acid called L-citrulline which is turned into nitric oxide. This dilates blood vessels and allows blood flow around the body, especially to the sex organs. L-citrulline is also used in supplements to help boost libido.
Additionally, watermelon is loaded with antioxidants, including vitamin C, to help protect against the ageing process. This helps banish and prevent annoying wrinkles and helps skin to glow. Try to eat some watermelon regularly; it also makes a really enjoyable snack.
Often the top of everyone’s list when it comes to thinking about libido; oysters are frequently referred to as an aphrodisiac. This is primarily due to them containing high levels of the mineral, zinc needed to help produce testosterone, essential for fertility and reproduction.
Oysters also deliver a decadent treat and make a great starter is you’re hoping to impress your partner; serve them with plenty of fresh lemon and sprinkle with Worcester sauce to further add some spice to your meal and your evening!
Maybe not such a surprise about this one! Whilst most people love chocolate and see it as a treat, it’s not just the taste that makes us feel good. From lots of research that has been carried out, it has been found to increase levels of our happy hormone, serotonin.
Importantly, eating chocolate raises levels of a compound called phenylethylamine, which we naturally produce when in love. Even better, chocolate is really high in plant polyphenols which naturally help blood flow and this also means blood flow gets to the parts it’s needed most!
The Aztecs apparently named avocados “the testicle tree”! Whilst this is not a well-known fact, the Aztecs were certainly on to something good when they realised that avocados could boost libido.
They are high in zinc which we know is essential for fertility and reproduction but also vitamin E which helps blood flow generally around the body. Plus, vitamin E is great for the skin so do eat them regularly. They’re delicious mixed with lemon juice and some salad leaves in a wholemeal pitta, making an easy lunchtime nutrient booster.
Sardines, salmon and mackerel are all rich sources of the essential omega-3 fats. They’re essential because the body can’t make them so they need to be eaten regularly in the diet; they’re also vitally important for hormone balance, therefore libido.
Additionally, omega-3s help keep the blood thin and free flowing which will encourage blood flow to the sexual organs. Don’t worry if oily fish isn’t your bag, you can still get plenty of these essential omegas from eating pumpkin seeds, walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds.
