Struggling to keep the romance alive in the bedroom? All you need is a diet overhaul.
The saying goes: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” As such it stands to reason that when it comes to our love lives, food plays a crucial role in igniting passion in our relationships, more so than donning the latest creations from Victoria’s Secret.
To add some va va voom to your bedroom antics it’s important that you ditch those energy-zapping fast foods, which are loaded with saturated fats and sugars, and instead stock up on healthy goods that will not only improve the way you look but also improve the way you feel, and in turn make you more confident.
“Essentially, what’s good for your heart is good for better [bedroom antics],” explains Steven Lamm, author of The Hardness Factor: How to Achieve Your Best Health And Sexual Fitness at Any Age.
By improving your physical condition and health you will improve your mental condition, making yourself more comfortable in your own skin, which will be reflected in your personality and energy. “Studies show that certain foods or nutrients do play a role in boosting libido and supporting a healthy sex life,” explains Cynthia Sass, RD, author of S.A.S.S Yourself Slim.
However, scientist and diet expert Linda DiBella explains while a good diet is essential in a healthier and more energetic lifestyle, hitting the gym also plays a role. “Although there are a number of so-called superfoods that specifically boost libido, if your current diet is unhealthy, simply eating them may not give you the result you’re looking for,” she says. “To boost libido organically requires that you obtain true health from within.”
So, hit the gym at least three times a week and start introducing these foods to your daily diet and watch your love life blossom:
DARK CHOCOLATE
As if you really need an excuse to eat chocolate. Containing magnesium and phenylethylamine (the latter is a compound that release endorphins similar to those triggered by bedroom action), dark chocolate, with at least 70 per cent cacao, is a great aphrodisiac, with some scientists claiming it provides more of a buzz than kissing.
BERRIES
It doesn’t matter about the colour, red or blue, berries are great for your love life. Red berries, like strawberries, are high in vitamin C, which is a said to be a libido booster – dip it in dark chocolate and you have an extra saucy treat. Blueberries are high in antioxidants, which help relax blood vessels, and improve circulation, which, in turn, means long-lasting energy. Blueberries also boost dopamine levels releasing a feel-good hormone.
AVOCADO
This super fruit is high in healthy fats, omega-3, omega-9, vitamin E and antioxidant properties including potassium and vitamin B6, promoting blood flow and helping reduce risk of heart disease and, as Steven Lamm said: “What’s good for your heart is good for…”
PEACHES, GRAPEFRUITS & ORANGES
Packed with a tonne of vitamin C, these juicy fruits increase libido in women and help improve sperm count for men.
WATERMELON
Low in calories but high in lycopene, beta-carotene and citrulline (the latter is converted to amino acid arginine). “Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra,” explains Bhimu Patil, PhD, director, Texas A&M’s Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center.
OATS
A bowl of morning porridge will never seem boring again. Containing L-arginine, it increases blood flow to all the right reproductive organs.
LEAFY GREENS
So that’s spinach, kale, cabbage, bok choy, arugula, as well as herbs like parsley and oregano. All contain high amounts of chlorophyll, which purifies the blood and helps increase blood flow, meaning you get turned on faster. Also a rich source of vitamins, including the fat-soluble A and K, and C, as well as minerals, these greens keep the body rich in alkaline and improve energy levels
FISH
In particular salmon, mackerel, sardines and tuna, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA that not only help raise dopamine levels that trigger arousal, but also keep your cardiovascular systems and heart healthy. Omega-3s are also great for combating depression.
EGGS
Rich in vitamins B6 and B5, eggs help balance hormone levels and ease stress. High in protein they boost energy and help you focus more. Just avoid frying them – you don’t want to waste all the goodness by adding extra fat.
STEAK
Carnivores will be delighted to hear that lean cuts of red meat are a fabulous source of zinc, which curbs production of prolactin, a hormone known to impair sexual function.
SEEDS
Rich in zinc and essential nutrients, sprinkle raw pumpkin and sesame seeds on to your dishes and improve life in the bedroom. Seeds are also high in vitamin E, which are affective in fighting the ageing effects of free radicals.
NUTS
There was a reason why the Romans tossed walnuts at newlyweds – they believe it brought luck in breeding. Walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, and pecans are high in L-arginine, promoting a healthy circulation to improve performance.
OYSTERS
A renowned aphrodisiac, thanks to its extremely high levels of zinc – great for sperm production, blood circulation and boosting libido.
Main image: Photography: Dave Kennedy | Styled by: Elizabeth Whiston-Dew | Make-up: Kate Goodwin | Manicure: The Nail Spa | Model: Rene B at Bareface
