When it comes to sexual wellness, it’s really quite simple: a healthy libido is a sign of a healthy body. Granted, there will be times when things get out of whack—we get sick or are under a lot of stress, and so on and so forth—and our libido will decrease. It’s part of life.
However, that said, taking care of yourself and eating the right foods can help keep things balanced and in check. Neglecting to nourish yourself properly will only result in poor health and, in turn, a decreased sex drive.
The good news is that you don’t have to go on a crazy strict diet to maintain a healthy libido. In fact, all you need to do is eat well-rounded meals and incorporate a few of the foods mentioned below into your diet if you want your libido to soar. Keep scrolling to learn the 8 foods to eat to maintain a healthy libido.
Foods To Eat for a Healthy Libido:
1. Oysters
Oysters are probably the most well-known “aphrodisiac,” and it turns out there’s a scientific reason for that: they’re high in compound zinc. Zinc increases blood flow in the body, which can help aid and increase blood flow to the genitals. It can also help regulate testosterone, which plays a big role in desire and arousal. Low levels of testosterone can cause low libido, regardless of sexual orientation and gender.
2. Berries
Berries are a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and help promote a healthy gut. Plus, they’re great for your skin, too. They’re also great for your libido because they’re rich in zinc and flavonoids that can help boost your sex drive. In fact, a study conducted by The National Science of Medicine found that blueberry-rich diets increased blood flow to the genitalia after only three weeks.
3. Salmon
Salmon is rich in vitamins and nutrients that promote a healthy libido. It’s a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins B12 and D. Omega-3 fatty acids can act in a similar way to Viagra by relaxing the blood vessels and increasing blood flow and circulation to the sex organs. If you don’t eat salmon, consider taking fish oil supplements to ensure you’re getting the proper amount of omega-3 fatty acids.
Additionally, vitamin D is great for promoting a healthy immune system, which is essential for overall health and maintaining and promoting a healthy libido. A healthy immune system is also helpful in promoting strong vaginal health, since it helps ward off infections and weed out bad bacteria.
4. Garlic
Stress can seriously mess with your libido because cortisol (the stress hormone) lowers testosterone levels. However, garlic contains a compound called acillin, which can help suppress the stress hormone. So the next time you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, try adding garlic into your meal.
5. Nuts and seeds
The next time you’re looking for a snack, reach for some nuts and seeds instead of cookies and chips. Nuts and seeds contain zinc, L-arginine, and omega-3 fatty acids—three things that can help get the blood flowing and increase sexual desire and function.
6. Apples and watermelon
Both of these fruits can be seriously beneficial to your sex life. Apples contain quertecin, an antioxidant that boosts blood flow and can possibly treat erectile dysfunction and help with prostatitis. Additionally, quertecin can also help lower blood pressure, which in turn can help boost sex drive. High blood pressure has been linked to low libido and sexual dysfunction. Likewise, watermelons are jam-packed with healthy nutrients and amino acids that can increase your sex drive.
7. Avocado
In case you needed another reason to love avocado, it’s this. Avocado is rich in vitamin E, which can help relax the blood vessels and increase blood flow to the genitals. The great thing about avocado is that it’s super versatile, and you can enjoy incorporate it into your diet in a multitude of ways.
8. Red wine
Wine lovers, rejoice! Like apples, red wine also contains natural antioxidant quercetin, and can be especially beneficial to women; a 2009 study found that regular, moderate intake of red wine was linked directly to an increase in sexual desire, lubrication and overall sexual function.
That said, it’s important to note that this only applies to drinking two glasses per day and red wine specifically. Any more than that and it will actually have the adverse effect. Alcohol abuse can actually cause sexual dysfunction and inhibit your ability to orgasm.
DISCLAIMER:
The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical or professional advice. Always consult a physician or any other professional health care provider regarding any health or wellness questions you may have, and before beginning or trying a new health, lifestyle, or wellness regimen.
