By Meri Raffetto, RD, LDN
Aphrodisiacs have been used
throughout many cultures for centuries. From oysters to chocolate, most cultures
have their favorite picks. Certain foods have been known to be powerful
aphrodisiacs although no scientific data can back up the claims. Foods are
purported to work by lowering inhibitions, stimulating blood flow, and releasing
happy hormones. It is important to note that aphrodisiacs are not meant to cure
any sexual dysfunctions; they are just supposed to help you to get in the mood.
Here are 6 foods to spice up your love life or at least try and see if it works
for you!
1. Bananas? Yes- you read
right. Bananas have a reputation for enhancing your mood and creating more
confidence. So if you are going out on the town and want to deliver a confident
and seductive come hither look then snack on a banana before you go. It might
help improve your flirting abilities.
2. Ginger the spice of
love. Are you past the flirting stage? Then move onto the seducing stage with
some ginger by your side. Ginger has been reported to increase blood flow to all
the right areas helping you to feel in the mood.
3. Green olives. Surprised?
Green olives are believed to make men more virile. I guess that means us women
will find them more manly. There is something about a man with a martini- James
Bond has it all figured out.
4. Black olives. I guess
since green olives work for men then black olives work for women. Black olives
are reported to increase a woman’s sex drive. Again, science doesn’t support the
claim but black olives are good for us anyway. It doesn’t hurt to
try.
5. Tomatoes. That little
Italian fruit is known as a sexual stimulant for both men and women. All those
times we ate spaghetti…who knew? Round off your meal with some tomatoes and its
all amore.
Ok. Want to know what the
biggest aphrodisiac is? The human brain- and this one is backed by science. You
can still have some fun creating a romantic meal or have just the right
appetizer when out with that special someone. All the foods above are very
healthy and if they don’t work as an aphrodisiac they will at least promote good
health.
Recipe for Love:
Start off with martinis
with green olives. Add some tapenade spread on bruschetta for an appetizer. Move
onto a tossed green salad with plenty of tomatoes. For the main course serve
Ginger Chicken and top it off with banana’s foster for dessert. I wonder if
there is such a thing as too many aphrodisiacs in one meal?
© 2006, Meri
Raffetto
Owner of Real Living
Nutrition Services, Meri Raffetto is a Registered Dietitian and recognized
professional in the area of nutrition and wellness. She specializes in weight
management and offers online programs to help people reach their weight loss and
health goals. For more information or to sign up for a free newsletter visit
http://www.reallivingnutrition.com
