It’s true! Science supports the notion that oysters can enhance your libido. Which got us to wondering what other foods can boost male sexual health?
Contemporary research has found that several foods can improve sexual wellness and erectile function due to their vitamins, minerals, flavonoids (antioxidants and anti-inflammatories), and healthy fats.
These nutrients strengthen the heart so it can more effortlessly pump blood throughout your body and into the genitals, so you can more readily achieve and hold an erection. On top of that, a strong heart supports stamina.
6 Food Categories to Fall in Love With
Everyone’s body is different and therefore might respond to foods in varying ways, but research suggests the nutrients in the following foods could enhance your sex drive and erectile health.
- Aw shucks, it’s not just oysters. Men and women have been slurping down oysters and clams to kindle sexual desire for centuries, but crab and lobster have similar powers, thanks to one common nutrient. Shellfish carry zinc, a mineral that increases blood flow and balances testosterone. Zinc might also support sperm function.
- Love fruits. Consuming several daily servings of fruit, including apples, cherries, berries, citrus, grapes, and/or watermelon, can reduce erectile dysfunction (ED) by 14%, research has found. That’s because fruit flavonoids and amino acids improve circulation and therefore erections. (Diabetics should ask their doctors about fruit portions.)
- Love veggies too. A bed of greens might improve your performance in the bedroom. Spinach, broccoli, asparagus, and beets are among veggies rich in blood-pumping nutrients. Vegetables are high in vitamin C, magnesium, and fiber, which stimulate metabolism and circulation. Magnesium also could boost testosterone levels, studies show.
- Go nuts for healthy fats. Nuts and other foods are high in protein and “good” fats that have been linked to better sexual performance, right down to sperm quality. The omega-3 fatty acids in walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts strengthen the heart, while pine nuts deliver zinc. Other healthy-fat foods: avocado and fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel.
- Cocoa’s a go-go. Cocoa beans might be bitter, but the sweet truth is they’re filled with nutrients that add a spark to circulation and mood. Dark chocolate that’s 70% cocoa or more carries higher levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories (flavonoids) that fire up circulation and dopamine, the pleasure hormone.
- Peppers that spice it up. If you can eat one chili pepper, then try for two or three. A study in Physiology & Behavior finds that men who eat hot peppers regularly have higher-than-average testosterone levels. When accompanied by the pepper chemical capsaicin, these hot flavonoids release endorphins, a natural mood enhancer.
Eat for Love, and Your Whole Health
Can certain foods act as anti-aphrodisiacs and reduce your sex drive? Research is ongoing, but several studies agree that too much alcohol can contribute to sexual and erectile dysfunction. You might want to keep it moderate.
Other sexual sideliners include some prostate cancer treatments, the side effects of kidney disease, and stress. If you suspect such conditions are getting in the way of your sex life, it might be time to talk to a specialist.
Don’t clam up! Our doctors train daily to better understand and treat male sexual wellness.
You can visit our Sexual Health page to learn more about conditions and treatment offerings.
