The Scoop on Sexy Foods

Q: I have read a lot about aphrodisiacs and am wondering if there is any truth to it all. Can certain foods really affect your sex drive and, if so, what can I add to my diet to increase my appetite?

Certain foods have been associated historically with romance and sex, and current research demonstrates that some of these are high in vitamins and minerals that can increase blood flow, necessary in good sexual functioning. But as a sex therapist, my response to your question must focus on the most powerful aphrodisiac there is: the mind. Eating all the oysters, chocolate, and chilies will have little, if any, impact on your sexual life if your thoughts are not in the right place. Negative mood states such as anxiety, worry, stress and depression, all undermine a vibrant libido and can even contribute to sexual dysfunctions to the point that no food aphrodisiac can ever compensate for.

Sexual desire and arousal are multi-causal and complex, often with a mind-body connection. In order to have all our sexual systems ready to fire, we need to feel confident, playful and positive. Eat foods that are heart healthy -- low in saturated fat and minimally processed. Exercise. Monitor your physical and emotional well-being. If your libido has suddenly changed or if there are problems in a relationship, you might want to have these evaluated. So, add some spice to your sex life with those aphrodisiacs whose shape, smell, feel, size, heat or texture enhance your fun, but realize that increasing your sexual appetite is not primarily about food.

DISCLAIMER: This format is general in nature and not intended as a personal response to each question nor is it a substitute for individualized medical or psychological care, diagnosis or treatment.

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed