Let's talk about spicing up your love life—literally! What you put on your plate can sizzle or fizzle your sex drive. Here's the dish on foods that can boost your libido and those that might leave you feeling less than frisky.

Foods That Boost Libido:

• Oysters: Often hailed as nature's aphrodisiac, oysters are rich in zinc, which can enhance testosterone production and increase sexual desire. 

• Avocados: Packed with heart-healthy fats and vitamin B6, avocados support hormone production and energy levels, setting the mood just right. 
• Dark Chocolate: Indulging in dark chocolate can boost serotonin and dopamine levels, enhancing mood and arousal. Plus, you can eat it with your hands, or feed them to your partner. Sensual!
• Watermelon: This juicy fruit contains citrulline, which increases nitric oxide levels in the body, improving blood flow to the sexual organs. 
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds and pine nuts are rich in essential fatty acids and zinc, crucial for hormone production and a healthy libido. 

Foods That May Dampen Libido:

• Processed and Fatty Foods: High in unhealthy fats and sugars, these can lead to sluggishness and decreased sexual desire. 
• Excessive Alcohol: While a glass of red wine can set the mood, overindulgence may impair sexual function and desire. 
• Red Meat: High consumption of red meat, especially when processed, can negatively impact circulation and energy levels, potentially affecting libido. 

What the people have to say: 

Dr. Shannon Chavez, a licensed psychologist and certified sex therapist, notes that "a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can enhance sexual health and libido." 

And users from Reddit agree!

u/Ralyks92 says, "Having a healthy diet, fruit is often good for a libido since fructose (fruit sugar) is a big deal for sperm and semen production, meaning it is the type of sugar your body actually wants to make the thing that drives the urge."

Another user says, "Personal experience has been: Eat better (and sufficiently if you aren't), get more sleep, and exercise more. You will have much more of a sex drive AND you'll look a lot better."

Remember, while diet plays a significant role, factors like stress, sleep, and overall health also influence your sex drive. So, serve up a balanced diet, savor the flavors, and enjoy the zest it brings to your love life!

Reference: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3731873/ 

About the author: 

Madhu (she/her) has been an avid reader of all things spicy since her childhood. She writes sassy blog posts and listicles now so that others may benefit from her wholly inappropriate, wholly informative tastes too.