Myths and truths about aphrodisiac foods. Illustration: Ela Saude
Do aphrodisiac foods really deliver on their promises and can they make your Valentine’s Day night hotter? To answer this question, we spoke with nutritionist Carolina Pimentel, who explained more about these foods and how to physically prepare for love.
“We need to understand that no single food is solely responsible for triggering, treating, or curing any type of disease, or having any direct outcome on our health, as is the case with aphrodisiacs. What exists are dietary patterns and behavioral habits that can improve well-being and general health, and consequently have a positive effect on relationships,” begins the nutritionist. In other words: the greatest aphrodisiac is a healthy diet.
Carolina reveals that what helps the most with sexual performance is eating light meals before the act. “Fish, for example, are easier to digest and have less fat. However, nuts, walnuts, and peanuts are sources of good fats, so they can also be consumed.” Some foods, like oysters, which are rich in zinc, help men produce testosterone, which is directly linked to sexual function.
“Chocolate and cocoa contain tryptophan, which is a precursor to serotonin. Serotonin is a substance that is primarily responsible for this sense of well-being. So this could also improve libido, for example. Strawberries improve blood flow and are rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant and helps with erections. Red wine also has the ability to relax and improve blood circulation, having a positive effect in this regard,” explains the nutritionist.
Foods that improve blood flow are directly linked to libido because they increase blood flow to the sexual organs, giving the sensation of more desire.
“There are foods that improve blood flow, mainly in the realm of spices and peppers. We can mention saffron, ginger, ginseng, rosemary, and cinnamon,” she adds.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
