Aphrodisiacs: 12 foods that may put you in the mood

Conventional wisdom says there can be a connection between the kitchen and the bedroom. By including the right foods, you’ll set the right mood.

Generally, the topic of aphrodisiacs is light on science and heavy on suggestion. But there are reasons why some foods routinely land on lists of items said to create an appetite for intimacy. 

What are aphrodisiacs?

Aphrodisiacs are believed to increase levels of sexual desire, arousal or pleasure naturally. Researchers looking for connections between foods and intimacy have made some general connections:

• They contain “feel good” compounds. Capsaicin in chili peppers can enhance bodily sensations, and antioxidants in fruits like pomegranates and strawberries can help improve blood flow. Both reactions are pluses for relaxing and creating intimacy.
• They represent fertility. Delicacies like fish roe and caviar eggs may elicit thoughts of reproduction. They’re also considered luxurious, which might further boost their aphrodisiac standing. 
• They look suggestive. Oysters, asparagus and other foods can resemble intimate body parts and offer a visual power of suggestion. 

Which foods are typically labeled aphrodisiacs?

Here are 12 foods commonly known as aphrodisiacs for one or more of the reasons listed above:

• oysters
• asparagus
• artichokes
• caviar
• chocolate
• strawberries
• bananas
• figs
• pomegranates
• watermelon
• honey
• chili peppers.

Do aphrodisiacs work?

In some cases, experiencing an increased desire for intimacy after eating specific foods may be the placebo effect. That’s a beneficial outcome created by anticipation that a specific intervention will produce a desired result. In this case, the idea is that a food can create a mood. 

In the end, if a romantic dinner that starts with an oyster appetizer and ends with chocolate-dipped strawberries does the trick for you and your sweetheart, indulge away.

Another option for creating intimacy

While it probably won’t hurt to try a few of these aphrodisiacs now and then, a healthy routine may be more beneficial in the long run. A heart-healthy approach to food, such as the Mediterranean diet, promotes good health and high energy, setting the stage for an “active” lifestyle – wink, wink.