10 Foods to Get You in the Mood

PINE NUTS

These healthy fat-filled nuts contain an ample amount of zinc, the mineral responsible for regulating testosterone, the body’s hormone responsible for sex drive. Add a handful of roasted pine nuts to a salad or pasta dish, or try your hand at a homemade pesto sauce. 

MACA

An adaptogenic root that has been shown to increase sex drive, and energy, and promote positive mood. Add a scoop of maca powder to your favorite smoothie, or hot drink for an energy and mood boost. 

COCONUT WATER

A natural electrolyte source, coconut water holds many benefits to enhance sexual health, including coconut water’s benefits for females sexually. This refreshing drink is loaded with vitamins and minerals to enhance sex hormone production, especially vitamin C, and manganese. Since it helps to replenish and hydrate us, it is also a natural energy booster! Try ½ a cup in your favorite mocktail or smoothie, or drink it on its own. 

AVOCADO

This trendy food holds a myriad of benefits including its high level of folic acid and vitamin B6 which help to give the body energy and regulate testosterone levels. Make a nice bowl of guacamole, or add a few slices to your morning toast for an energy boost. 

SAFFRON

This warm and coveted spice has been known to be a natural aphrodisiac for centuries. Saffron contains a chemical called picrocrocin, that makes your body more sensitive to the touch. Many studies have also shown saffron to have positive effects on erectile dysfunction and increased overall sex drive in both men and women. Take a few sprigs of saffron and brew a warm tea, toast a few sprigs in olive oil over low heat and add to your dinner, or add it to a homemade coconut curry dish. 

FENUGREEK

Clinic trials can back this overlooked herb. Researchers have proved that fenugreek has a positive effect on sex drive in men, as it was shown to boost by at least a quarter. Fenugreek contains furostanolic saponins, compounds which are believed to increase testosterone production, thus driving up libido. Fenugreek is an easy spice to add to curried or Indian-inspired dishes, or you can also make a hot tea out of it. Look for it in the spice aisle the next time you head to the grocery store. 

STRAWBERRIES

This Valentine’s famous fruit lives up to its reputation. These heart-shaped berries are packed with vitamin C, which aids in the production of sex hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain to increase libido. Start dipping those fresh strawberries in some melted dark chocolate. Before the chocolate cools, sprinkle on some Himalayan sea salt, shredded coconut, or cinnamon for an extra boost. 

OYSTERS

These guys have quite the reputation for enhancing libido and sex drive. This is due to their content of zinc and dopamine- a double whammy for helping you get in the mood. If you have never yet prepared or tried oysters, we recommend leaving it to the professionals. Try some of our local favorite restaurants in the city for fresh oysters- Union Oyster House, or Neptune Oyster. 

DARK CHOCOLATE

Pure chocolate and cacao contain a natural stimulant called phenylethylamine. This helps to produce dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical our body releases. Chocolate is also high in antioxidants, and heart-healthy compounds that help enhance blood flow throughout the body. Try making a spicy hot chocolate with pure cocoa powder, milk of choice, some dried chili, and a drizzle of honey. 

CINNAMON

This familiar spice is actually a really potent aphrodisiac. It contains a high level of antioxidants, has been shown to increase blood flow, and also raises body temperature when eaten. Try adding some cinnamon sticks to a hot drink, sprinkle over your valentines dessert, or add to your main dish to spice things up!

While these foods can contribute to a healthy lifestyle and may offer some benefits for libido, it’s important to remember that low sex drive can have complex underlying causes. If you’re experiencing persistent low libido, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to identify any potential hormonal imbalances, medical conditions, or lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the issue. Five Journeys offers a comprehensive approach to low sex drive treatment, addressing the root causes and providing personalized solutions to help you reclaim your sexual well-being and improve your quality of life.

Resources: 

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2017/february/food-for-libido

https://www.ivfmd.com/news/29-aphrodisiac-foods-that-can-affect-your-sex-drive/ 

https://www.bonappetit.com/trends/article/10-foods-that-help-make-you-better-at-sex-including-love-apples-rrrowr 

https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/fenugreek-can-increase-male-libido/2011/06/20/AGOxpqcH_blog.html