Oysters, chocolate or chilli peppers: choose your favourite. But remember: it's all a matter of mind, more than sex...
Beyond any real scientific explanation, there are some foodstuffs generally considered to be more aphrodisiacal than others.
Their actual nutritional components do not come into it, but what counts is their evocative and allusive nature which, moreover, can vary from one country to another. Only one thing holds true no matter who you are and where you live: the only real erogenous zone is the mind. So if you are convinced that a particular food is aphrodisiacal, then it will probably do the trick anyhow.
No matter how you see it, here is a list of those foods generally thought to be aphrodisiacal:
Oysters / champagne
Classic fancy date-night foods that have been the epitome of luxury since the 19th century. The contrast of textures leaves an explosive feeling in the mouth.
Chilli peppers
The capsaicin that makes chilli peppers hot stimulates the nerve endings on the tongue, raises your heart rate and releases endorphins. Sounds like the perfect recipe for romance, just as long as you don’t get chili on your hands.
Salmon
Salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for the health of your heart and supporting your libido.
Asparagus
The high Vitamin E content is believed to increase blood and oxygen flow to the genitals. The undeniably phallic vegetable’s high potassium content is also linked to the production of sex hormones.
Truffles
The fact that truffles are rare and expensive only adds to their caché. Their high protein content also promotes stamina and their earthly aroma has been likened to the male pheromone.
Strawberries / champagne
Shaped like a heart, strawberries are packed with Vitamin C, which is important for the production of sex hormones.
Avocado
The Aztec word for avocado is “ahuacatl”, which means testicle. Avocados also contain high levels of folic acid and B vitamins, which provide energy and increase testosterone production.
Chocolate / cream
The ultimate in sexy food, chocolate contains phenylethylamine, a stimulant that promotes excitement and a feeling of well-being.
Bananas
In addition to their shape, bananas contain an enzyme called bromelain, which is thought to boost male sex drive, as well as potassium and B vitamins that are good for stamina and energy levels.
Figs
Believed to be 'sexy' in appearance, figs are also high in amino acids, which may boost stamina and libido.
The exact opposite may be said for some dishes which, due to their symbolic significance, are believed to have an anti-erotic effect: we do not advise you to prepare any of these when trying to seduce a partner for the first time.
Garlic
Although some apparently do consider this an aphrodisiac, it’s hard to get past the pungent smell!
Offal
Although offal can provide plenty of vitamins and minerals, its strong smell and often off-putting appearance sends it to the bottom of the love list.
Pasta and beans or pulses in general
Although beans are high in zinc, which can help regulate testosterone, their noisy side effects may well keep loved ones at bay too long to find out.
Rice and milk
Dairy products can contain synthetic hormones that may negatively affect your levels of oestrogen or testosterone.
Polenta
Carb-packed hearty polenta can certainly increase stamina, but be careful not to overindulge or it may leave you feeling awkwardly sluggish.
