Sex Health: Better Sex Diet

Alcohol
Without a doubt, the intake of excessive amounts of alcohol impairs sexual function. But a little alcohol helps ease inhibitions. Wine and champagne are widely used to set a romantic mood. Add some chocolate-covered strawberries to the mix, and the outcome could be good. We don't need scientific evidence to convince us that ambience is one of the few truly effective aphrodisiacs.

Chocolate
Chocolate can, of course, be quite sensual. But the craving of choice for many women may have some real benefits to their sex lives. Chocolate contains phenylethylamine, a chemical compound that can produce feelings of euphoria and happiness by releasing dopamine, the brain chemical that also surges during orgasms. Like all sweet things, enjoy your chocolate in moderation, as--unless you are underweight--gaining weight is not likely to prove beneficial to your sex life.

Chili Peppers
As we all know, spicy foods get the heart pumping. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chilies their "burn," might also trigger the brain to release endorphins--substances that, at high levels, can create a sensation of pleasure. Apparently, chili peppers stimulate the nervous system, which can, in turn, accentuate the effects of sexual arousal.

Fruits and Vegetable
A diet high in fruits and vegetables can impact our sex lives in a couple of ways. For one, it helps lower cholesterol levels, which keeps the blood moving in all of the important places. In addition, fruits and vegetables help in weight loss since, relative to most food, they are low in calories and high in fiber, which makes us feel full. Since obesity is associated with low testosterone levels, anything we do to ensure proper body mass will only help our sex lives.

Whole Grains
Adding fiber and complex carbohydrates to your diet aids in weight management. This is crucial because obesity is linked to low testosterone--something which contributes to decreases in both sexual drive and function. Choose whole wheat over white bread, and have whole grain cereal instead of cornflakes for breakfast. Oats are the grain of choice, as some researchers say they increase the amount of testosterone in the blood. Whole grains also help sustain energy levels, which can be useful in bed.

Ginger
A stimulant for the circulatory system, ginger is said to increase blood flow to the genitals. It's the plant's aromatic stem that's used for culinary and medicinal purposes. It can be eaten raw, cooked or crystallized.

Honey
Honey's special power comes from the mineral boron, which helps the body utilize estrogen, the basic female sex hormone. Some researchers claim that honey also increases energy levels. It's likely creative minds will also think of other ways to milk honey of its potential libido-boosting powers.

Nuts
The Roman allegedly tossed walnuts--not rice--at newlyweds, as they were considered symbols of fertility. While there may not be much scientific evidence behind this tradition, we do know that nuts can help keep our vascular system healthy, which ensures adequate blood flow to the genital region. Nuts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower cholesterol. They also contain other heart-healthy nutrients as well, like magnesium, folic acid and zinc.

Oyster
Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love for whom aphrodisiacs are named, gave birth to Eros on an oyster shell, marking the beginning of the oyster's sexual reputation. And there actually might be some truth to this notoriety: Oysters are notably high in zinc, which is needed for testosterone production. It has been shown, too, that men with zinc-deficient diets are at risk for prostate problems. In male reproduction, zinc may be necessary for adequate testosterone levels and sperm counts.

Soy
Along with being low in fat and excellent sources of protein, soy products, such as tofu and soy milk, have phytoestrogens, which are said to combat PMS and menopause--two things that can definitely get in the way of a good sex life. "Because soy binds estrogen receptors, it helps keep the vaginal area lubricated, which especially helps women whose estrogen levels are decreasing," says Beverly Whipple, professor emeritus at Rutgers University and vice president of the World Association for Sexology.

http://www.forbes.com/2005/03/16/cx_vg_0317featslide_11.html?thisSpeed=6000