Sexy things to eat

Throughout time cultures have marked out different foods as erotic, based on everything from how many seeds they contained (passionfruit, figs, tomatoes) to the shape (hellooo avocado, or āhuacatl, Aztec for testicle).

We’ve compiled a list of foods known to contain actives that support a healthy sex drive – so you can create your own version of this scene in 9 1/2 Weeks, or just boost your nutrition and libido naturally!

Avocado
Apart from the Aztec name, avocados were once banned by Catholic priests in Spain who believed the rich creamy fruit were simply too sexy to be safe. Avocado are rich in vitamin E which supports healthy levels of testosterone, estrogen and progesterone, to keep your hormone levels tip top.

Chocolate
A legitimate love drug, chocolate is made with cocoa which stimulates production of happy hormones serotonin and dopamine, as well as increasing levels of the ‘love and sex hormone’ oxytocin. Not only that, real chocolate contains phenylethylamine (PEA), which quickens your pulse, and is produced by the brain when we fall in love. Chocolate melts sensually in your mouth, and tastes amazing. Dark chocolate delivers the ultimate sexiness because of higher cocoa levels, so choose the darkest chocolate for a happy, relaxed mood and sensual potential.

Watermelon
Fresh, sweet and delicious, watermelon also has high levels of an amino acid called l-citrulline, an amino acid related to vascular health. Again, great blood flow supports impressive erections and increased orgasm intensity.

Coffee
Caffeine has stimulant properties which raise heart rate and blood pressure, and a University of Texas study showed increased arousal in women and boosted testosterone in men. Hoo-hah!

Asparagus
Traditionally served to bridegrooms at their pre-wedding feast, asparagus is full of folic acid, which helps to ensure reproductive health, as well boosting your mood and sense of well being. Asparagus increases histamine production which helps support a healthy sex drive. It also contains Vitamin E for a sexy glow, and potassium to help your body flush excess water and get rid of that bloated feeling that kills your sex drive.

Chilli peppers
Capsaicin is the active that gives chilli peppers their kick, and it also boosts our the heart rate and triggers the release of mood-enhancing endorphins. Hot and happy? Perfect!

Maca powder
Maca is rich in amino acids that nourish the adrenal glands, balance our hormones and give us energy. A delicious combination! It has been known to help people with low libidos due to antidepressant medication.

Vanilla
Vanilla beans were used in ancient cultures to attract lovers, and to enhance the mood and libido. That delicious scent makes almost anyone feel good!

Blueberries
Circulation is key for a good libido and sexual function – and blueberries are great for circulation. Not only that – blueberries are high in antioxidants for a naturally glowing skin, and contain dopamine, a neurotransmitter which stimulates your brain’s pleasure centers!

Almonds
With high amounts of zinc, vitamin E, magnesium and selenium which benefit your sexual health and help support hormonal balance.

Flax seeds
The essential fatty acids Omega 3 and 6 in flaxseeds increase sex hormone testosterone production.

Oysters
The sensory experience of eating a raw oyster is part of its mystique, but oysters also contain zinc, which helps support a strong libido.

Garlic
Used as an aphrodisiac for centuries, garlic contains the natural chemical allicin that increases blood flow. Boosted circulation means more blood flowing to our sexual organs, boosting that glowing warm feeling.

Beetroot
A natural source of the nitrates which help produce nitric oxide, beetroot supports libido enhancing blood flow and healthy circulation.