Taste, lick, absorb, satiate… A set of words describing the intimate details of a passionate love meeting often intersects with the vocabulary of a gourmet. Which is not surprising: food and sex are closely related to each other, and some foods serve as an excellent seasoning for lovemaking.
Spanish fly, tiger testicles, rhinoceros horn… These bizarre and exotic aphrodisiacs are a thing of the distant past: they have been replaced by oysters, ginger and chocolate. And even though modern substances that stimulate sexual desire no longer have an aura of magic and sorcery, they are much more effective and much safer.
Meanwhile, the so-called love catalysts contained in foods, many of us tend to be skeptical, as pure fantasy. “And in vain,” says nutritionist Alexei Resnenko. “Because the effect of certain substances on sexual functions is confirmed by scientific studies. Scientists have found that certain foods can not only stimulate or suppress our sexual desire, but also, by changing body odor, skin color, eye shine, attract potential partners.
So, an aphrodisiac is a product, drink or fragrance that can make a man passionate and romantic, and a woman tender and desirable. In any culture at all times, these products have occupied a special place. Not having a scientific explanation then, but knowing about such an effect, connoisseurs and connoisseurs of erotica and sex have always been looking for products that awaken, support or enhance desire.
What is the secret of an aphrodisiac? “In special chemical compounds that stimulate the parts of the nervous system responsible for sexual desire, enhance the work of the endocrine glands and relax the body, preparing it for physical contact,” explains Alexei Resnenko.
Erotic menu includes different products. Among them can be both very unusual and exotic (yohimbe bark, durian, truffles, snails), and quite familiar – parsley, celery, lettuce, seafood, strawberries, bananas, saffron, honey, nuts and even potatoes. Also, a glass of wine or champagne…
What undermines our love?
“The habit of accompanying an intimate meeting with alcohol can become a trap,” says nutritionist Alexei Resnenko. – In small doses (no more than two glasses of wine or a glass of champagne), it stimulates blood circulation, relaxes and brings partners together. There is a feeling of warmth and dizziness, which is the best match for an intimate setting. But in large quantities, alcohol makes sex impossible.”
In men, chronic alcohol abuse leads to erection problems and sometimes impotence. Also, lovers do not benefit from an excess of food rich in aphrodisiacs. A large amount of it causes blood flow to the digestive organs, reducing for a while the blood supply to other organs, including the brain (regulating sexual behavior) and the genitals.
Vitamins and minerals – to maintain tone
Not a single biochemical process in the body can do without these substances, including the synthesis of sex hormones and endorphins – hormones of pleasure. Many vitamins and minerals are found in the most common foods included in our daily diet: greens, cereals, meat, eggs.
Vitamin B3 – more fun
Vitamin B3 is essential for converting food into energy. But besides this, it enhances our sensitivity and accelerates sexual arousal. Vitamin B3 can be found in whole grains (wheat, rice, etc.), egg yolk, fish, dried legumes, wheat germ.
Vitamin B6 – more desire
Vitamin B6 is a key link in the chain for the processing of amino acids – substances that form proteins and some hormones. This vitamin increases sexual appetite. It can be found in beans, lentils, liver, kidneys, bananas, and cauliflower.
Vitamin E – sexual longevity
Vitamin E is one of the most powerful antioxidants: it protects cellular structures from the damaging effects of free radicals and prevents premature aging. Vitamin E deficiency leads to a decrease in attraction in women and men. It is found in nuts, vegetable oils, avocados.
More zinc = more sex
Zinc is useful primarily for men: it is necessary for the normal functioning of the prostate and the synthesis of male sex hormones. So if the body lacks zinc, goodbye testosterone, sperm and sperm! The best sources of zinc of animal origin are seafood (in the first place on this list, of course, oysters), poultry, eggs.
Proteins and fats – for future victories
Fats and proteins are the main nutrients that ensure the vital activity of our body. But it takes time to get used to them. “That is why it is better to postpone a thorough, full-fledged dinner until the passions subside, and before sex, be content with light snacks, such as ice cream, berries, fruit desserts, a piece of cake or pastry: carbohydrates quickly restore strength and do not burden the stomach,” recommends Aleksey Resnenko. “If you consider a small feast an essential part of a romantic evening, choose a light protein dish – mineral-rich seafood combined with vegetable salad and fruit.”
Olive oil – for completeness of sensations
The basis of Mediterranean cuisine – olive oil – reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood, thus improving blood circulation. This is also very important for sexual pleasure: a good blood supply to the genital organs, both male and female, is necessary for the fullness of sensations.
Spices – to start
Of the spices, those that warm the blood are suitable: ginger, red hot pepper, cloves. They dilate blood vessels and facilitate blood flow, which helps to quickly come to an active state.
Dark chocolate – for excitement
“A cocktail of beneficial substances contained in dark chocolate (theobromine, caffeine, phenylethylamine, flavonoids) accelerates blood flow, prevents the formation of blood clots, relieves pain and prevents the formation of free radicals,” says Alexey Resnenko. “In addition, chocolate improves mood and is great for relaxing, which is why it is considered one of the most suitable foods for a romantic dinner.”
Bananas – for tone
They are rich in sugars and quickly satisfy hunger, which can distract from a more important activity. In addition, they contain potassium, without which muscle contractions are impossible, including the work of the heart.
Strawberries – for beauty
Its aroma creates a pleasant atmosphere and enhances sexual desire. Sugars provide cells with energy, and fruit acids normalize metabolic processes.