9 aphrodisiacs to eat on your next date

Fact: we live in a world that challenges our sense of pleasure daily (make that hourly). Whether it’s work stress, general anxiety, sleep deprivation, relationship strain, side effects from medication or contraception, or even hormonal fluctuations due to menstruation cycles, pregnancy, or menopause, at the end of the day, no matter how youthful and vital you may be, it can prove very challenging to feel unhindered sexual desire. 

The good news is, there may be a link between the food you eat and the sex you’re (not) having.

Whether you're looking to increase your sex drive, or you’re in a romantic rut, or you’re interested in adding a little exxxtra spice to your next date, exploring the delectable realm of aphrodisiacs may be just what the good goddess ordered to help bring sexy back. And if you happen to be naturally drawn to food play, who knows what delicious doors you’ll be opening by gifting your sensual palate with a treat or three?

While there’s no scientific evidence to back most aphrodisiac claims per se, the nutritional benefits of certain foods and/or the experience of eating them can absolutely contribute to good sexual health and sexual ideation alike—you heard it here first!

Soooo, do consider whipping out any of the following cloud 9 aphrodisiacs next time date night rolls around:

1. Oysters

Scientists say raw oysters really do boost your libido because they contain certain amino acids that stimulate hormone production. They’re also rich in zinc, which is essential to male sexual function and fertility. Aside from their potential desire-inducing properties, eating oysters can also inspire horniness by virtue of the sensual slurping required to eat them. Food for thought.

2. Strawberries

The sweet ’n juicy heart-shaped strawberry was once recognized as a symbol of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. For a while, the ancient Greeks actually banned the eating of strawberries, which led many to believe that the seductive yet forbidden fruit held magical powers. Though perhaps not “magic” in the ancient sense, the high vitamin C levels in strawberries promote healthy blood flow and deliver ample magnesium and potassium—both known to support a hearty libido.

3. Dark chocolate

It's commonly believed that dark chocolate enhances sexual desire and pleasure; indeed, the mere sensation of its delicious depth on one's tongue can do wonders for the sensual imagination. It also happens to contain compounds like phenylethylamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which promote feelings of pleasure and relaxation, in turn leading to a more positive sexual experience. Bonus: it also contains anandamide, which mimics the effects of cannabinoids and can have a mild mood-elevating (read: arousing) effect.

4. Red wine

While there are certainly reasons to opt for staunchly sober sex, and while overdoing alcohol can adversely affect your sex life, sometimes a touch of red wine can do wonders for your inner sex fiend. In moderate amounts, it can have a relaxing and mood-enhancing effect, which can certainly contribute to a more enjoyable sexual experience. It also contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which has been linked to protection against chronic disease—really, what’s sexier than that?

5. Coffee

Consumed daily by the masses to increase alertness and temporarily boost energy levels, coffee isn’t often thought of as sexiness-inducing. But its physiological effects—which include increased heart rate and blood flow—lead some people to experience an increase in both energy and arousal after consuming it. Caffeine also stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, which can have elevating effects on mood and sexual desire.

6. Papaya

The ancient Mayans honored the papaya tree as the sacred “Tree of Life.” Perhaps it's no coincidence that many believe the cut papaya fruit resembles a vagina. In addition to its slew of healing properties, papaya has long been hailed as a potent aphrodisiac, and has been used to treat erectile dysfunction: its high arginine and fibrin levels stimulate blood flow. Papaya is also rich in magnesium, which is necessary to the production of sex hormones, as well as the production of dopamine and epinephrine—neurotransmitters that act as a powerful complement to rewarding sex. Mmm.

7. Honey

Honey has been considered an aphrodisiac food as far back as 500BC. In fact, the word “honeymoon” originated in medieval times, when it was common for newlyweds to drink mead (a fermented honey beverage) for a full moon cycle post wedding—this was believed to bring good luck and fertility to the happy couple. Honey happens to be a great source of boron and vitamin B, which help regulate estrogen and testosterone, increasing libido and facilitating orgasm.

8. Ginger

Ginger has long been used as a natural stimulant, and it so happens that this common household staple can also stimulate sexual arousal. Bonus: you don’t need to be a figging enthusiast to reap the benefits! This warming root can increase blood flow, in turn helping to enhance sexual arousal. As well, it has been shown to decrease blood pressure, which could be especially beneficial for libido, as high blood pressure is associated with a higher risk of sexual dysfunction.

9. Chili pepper

If heat is any indication of an impassioned soul, then chili peppers are definitely an aphrodisiac. They contain the chemical capsaicin, which is known to boost testosterone, thereby increasing libido. They also release endorphins, which are, effectively, natural painkillers (they make you feel good). When eating food with chili peppers in it, your heart rate and your body temperature both rise, which, in laywoman’s terms, gets you feelin’ hawt to trawt.

What are you waiting for? Why not plan your next date right now? A starlit picnic, perhaps, or rooftop fine dining? Or, for more kink-inspired couples, nyotaimori, anyone? Perhaps home-cooked horniness is more your speed. Go forth and let your palate be your guide. 

And remember: open communication, a healthy lifestyle, and maintaining emotional and physical wellbeing are all crucial to nurturing a satisfying sex life. Aphrodisiacs are simply a mouthwatering way of sweetening the proverbial pot and coaxing your latent lust into slow and delicious fruition.