The Better Sex Diet

When you think of food that helps to boost men’s libido naturally, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind – oysters, egg yolk in beer or? We have been bombarded by countless claims that eating a particular type of food can boost men’s sex drive, but which ones have proven to be effective and which are just myths? Let Dr Lim Kok Bin, Urologist, Raffles Urology Centre, provide you with the insights.

Are there foods that can boost a man’s sex drive?

Maintaining proper blood circulation is vital for your overall health and sexual health. The path to greater sexual satisfaction could begin with what you eat that results in the right balance of hormones. Reach out and fill your diet with more of the following:

Herbs	Ginseng, basil, saffron A variety of herbs and extracts can help to relieve blood that is not flowing properly. Modern research demonstrates that certain natural compounds such as ginseng, basil and saffron can effectively support healthy circulation and help to combat plague build-up on the arterial walls.
Vegetables	Asparagus, broccoli, celery, chilies, garlic Asparagus is considered one of the best libido-boosting foods as it is rich in folate. It helps to regulate the production of histamine – the chemical that is released during an orgasm. Celery contains androsterone, a pheromone precursor. Pheromones are odourless chemical signals released through sweat glands and it can sub-consciously affect the behaviour of the receiving mate once smelled. Garlic is known to keep your immunity system strong. But there’s more, it contains allicin, a blood thinner compound that improves the blood circulation necessary for an erection by relaxing the arteries. Having strong circulation also allows for greater physical endurance in the bedroom.
Grains, nuts and seeds	Pumpkin seed, flax seeds, oats, almonds, peanuts This food group is general nutrient-dense. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of carnitine, which is essential for the transportation of fatty acids for the generation of metabolic energy. It is high in Vitamin E, which may lower the stickiness of blood and therefore lower the likelihood of blood clot formation.
Fruits	Watermelon, citrus fruits, all berries, avocadoes, bananas, figs Watermelon contains phytochemicals that open the blood cells. It is rich in lycopene, which discourages the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Citrus fruits, kiwis, strawberries, and cantaloupes are all high in Vitamin C, which is a natural blood thinner. Citrus fruits also contain bioflavonoids which can help strengthen your capillaries. Blackberries are known to be able to purify the blood and promote the formation of new blood cells. Avocadoes contain essential fatty acids that function as fuel for cells. Bananas are some of the best aphrodisiacs known for men. Apart from containing lots of vitamins and potassium, which provide an abundant reserve of energy, they also help to keep you alert. In addition, bananas contain anti-flammatory enzyme bromelain that aids in triggering greater production of testosterone.
Seafood	Mackerel, salmon Food that is high in omega-3 fatty acids like mackerel and salmon are great to improve circulation resulting in greater erectile response. It helps to improve sexual function in men and in women too, since blood flows to the clitoris and surrounding vulva.

While many Chinese believe that eating animal testicles and penis will help to boost men’s libido, Dr Lim advised that these are just plain muscles and blood vessels with no real benefits. He added that the key is eating food that improves blood circulation and are high in anti-oxidants, like Vitamin E and C.

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