Chocolate-dipped strawberries have been done so often in the movies, they are almost too cliché. But, consider the vitamin C in the strawberries promotes blood flow and higher levels of estrogen. They also contain magnesium, potassium, and zinc, each of which contributes to the heightening of female and male hormones. All of that, with the idea that eating them reddens the lips and makes them kissable, kind of explains why they are on the list and even sometimes gifted to brides.
There are plenty of other foods, however, that are not nearly as sexy but still claim to have the same effect. We’ve come up with a list of some you might know, and why they made the list. Although some of these you still may not want to eat on a Valentine’s Day date surrounded by Cupids blowing chocolate bubbles, like…
Raw Oysters. Studies have shown oysters contain amino acids that seemingly promote the production of testosterone. We can blame Casanova’s claim that 50 oysters a day was his lucky appetizer. So, if you can find someone who doesn’t mind the ambiance of the little slimy, fishy creatures, happy date night.
Pomegranate juice has been proven to increase testosterone in men and women, enough said.
The heat in Chile Peppers can release endorphins, which act as natural painkillers, as well as raise your body temperature, quicken your pulse, and put you in a good mood. If you can take the heat, and your love doesn’t mind sharing the sting, maybe share a Montezuma-inspired chocolate-chili shake as a warm-up.
Honey has been used as a romance stimulant since 500 B.C. when Hippocrates prescribed it to patients to increase their energy. It is even mentioned as a stimulant in the Kama Sutra. Apparently, it contains a high amount of boron and vitamin B. Boron reportedly directly affects the way our bodies use estrogen, testosterone, and vitamin D, and therefore is significant in our romance activities. You can also get boron from red beets, but it’s not nearly as attractive eating a plant root as dipping things in a golden, sticky sweet goo.
Like oysters, no one is turned on by the smell of garlic breath. But eating it can help with myriad issues, including “drive.” Garlic contains allicin, which builds heat in the body and has been proven to increase testosterone. It is useful for stamina and even muscle growth. Weirdly, the chemical substance that creates garlic’s aroma is also one the same chemicals present in female pheromones.
While we’re not surprised pumpkin seeds are on the list, it is good to know they are high in zinc, which is vital for testosterone production and promotes a healthy libido in men and women. The high zinc levels can also improve mental health and enhance a person’s mood. In fact, a Chicago study once showed men and women got aroused just from smelling a pumpkin pie. Score another reason for why pumpkin spice is a big deal.