We've all heard a spate of advertisements recently hawking products that
promise to boost performance in the bedroom, but rather than put your
body at risk by taking something that could do more harm than good, we
thought it would be a nice public service to our readers to examine
which foods and supplements naturally help boost libido.
Before we begin, some wise words from Margarita R. Ochoa-Maya, MD, CDE, from the Freedom To Heal
site: "Always keep in mind that some supplements also go through the
same metabolism pathways that prescription drugs do and in excess even
vitamins or supplements can become toxic, or can present with drug to
drug interactions and be quite dangerous. ...Always try to discuss with
your physician all the prescription drugs, over the counter drugs,
vitamins and supplements that you take or wish to take."
Okay,
now that we've got the disclaimer out of the way, you should know there
really are a number of foods and supplements available to help you and
your partner experience a more fulfilling sex life. You don't need to
put your health at risk using a drug or other substance when you can
enhance your sexual experiences naturally.
Libido-enhancing foods
Raw oysters:
Granted, not everyone likes oysters, but they contain a very high zinc
content which can raise testosterone production and sperm count, men.
It's recommended you buy them fresh and scrub the outer shell well
before opening them.
Avocado: This native of central
Mexico is a great source of folic acid, vitamin B6 and potassium. It's
believed avocados can help metabolize proteins and increase testosterone production, as well as regulate your thyroid gland.
Bananas:
Here's the deal. Bananas are full of potassium and B vitamins in
general, "but it is its phallic shape that is said to be partially
responsible for its aphrodisiac qualities," says the Freedom To Heal blog.
Figs: Researchers believe figs, which are high in amino acids, can also help increase sexual stamina. Nothing wrong with that.
Soy: Soy is a natural phytoestrogen and therefore, may improve and boost hormone levels, thereby improving sexuality.
Other foods
include Asparagus, almonds and nuts in general, eggs (which help
balance hormone levels), basil (thought to also boost female fertility),
brown rice/cheese/turkey (great sources of zinc).
Horny Goat Weed:
No, we didn't make this name up. Otherwise known as Yin Yang Huo, this
plant, found naturally in Asia, can be used to increase libido in both
men and women. "Though the method in which epimedium functions is not
entirely known, some researchers suggest that epimedium assists the body
in reducing cortisol levels and increasing circulation, thereby
allowing the body to experience greater arousal," says "Making Plant Medicine."
Others
include L-Arginine, Maca Root, and Yohimbe, though the latter is
associated with some potentially severe side effects like irritability,
anxiety and heart palpitations.
Besides these foods and supplements, other things can also help improve your bedroom experience.
"Lifestyle
changes such as exercising, quitting smoking, decreasing the
consumption alcohol, and monitoring the use of prescription drugs, may
help increase one's sexual desire," writes Dr. Ochoa-Maya. "Moreover,
learning stress management and coping skills along with better
communication techniques can be helpful for individuals who experience
libido impairment due to a stressful life."
Eat naturally and, um, enjoy.
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