Nutrition 101

Top 10 Healthy Aphrodisiac Foods

February 11, 2014

by Natalia Hancock, Senior Culinary Nutritionist

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Find out which foods you should make a part of a healthy dinner date.

The idea that foods have legitimate aphrodisiac properties when consumed is very difficult to prove scientifically. For example, red wine is often touted as an aphrodisiac due to its resveratrol content. While this compound is known to boost blood circulation, one would need to drink “8 to 10 bottles per day” to experience these benefits, says Eric Rimm, Director of the Program in Cardiovascular Epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health.

Similarly, it’s been reported that the chemical phenylethylamine in cocoa can improve your mood. However, to experience a noticeable boost , a person would need to consume 20% of their own body weight in chocolate!

While it may be difficult to achieve the biochemical effects of aphrodisiac foods, let’s not forget about other ways our state of mind is altered by foods: aroma, taste, texture, luxuriousness, shape, etc.

Since ancient times, certain foods have been revered for their aphrodisiac properties for various reasons. We have come up with our top ten list of the healthiest. These foods are full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and various other beneficial nutrients, so be sure make them a delicious part of healthy dinner date:

Oysters

- a good source of vitamin D

Figs

- find out why you should keep figs in your pantry!

Asparagus

- check out this great recipe for chilled asparagus soup

Pomegranate

- a source of polyphenols

Avocados

- high in healthy, unsaturated fats

Chocolate

- find out why dark chocolate is better for you

Truffles (not the chocolate kind!)

- try this delicious and nutritious recipe for farro risotto and black truffle

Spices (chili, ginger, cinnamon and turmeric)

- incorporate more ginger and turmeric into your diet with this low-calorie recipe for Punjabi cabbage

Strawberries

- find out how fruits and vegetables can lower your risk of heart disease

Cherries

- check out this delicious recipe for a cherry, chocolate and almond smoothie

What are some of your favorite aphrodisiac foods? Let us know in the comments below!

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