Nutrition for the bedroom :)

Aphrodisiac. 

Everyone loves a bit of "spice" in the bedroom, after all sex is the so called "fruit of life" and should always be amazing.  I live by two mottos, one is my own and one has been "borrowed" (well obviously stolen) from the beautiful Nigella Lawson.

1.  Everyone is a "good guy" and a "bad guy", we just judge them on the side they show more.

2.  Life is too short for bad food (and by bad she means boring and I mean boring and with little nutritional benefits).

Shouldn't sex be the same?  After all, if life's too short for bad food its most certainly too short for bad sex?  I definitely believe so.  Sex is important in any relationship, not to mention the health benefits  of being sexually active.  Exercise, muscle strength, better sleep, better mentality, a sense of power and euphoria.  Its all fantastic.  Lust based sex of course does not have maximum benefits.  ANYHOO I shall share with you the magic little world of aphrodisiacs.  I'm sure some of you have finished a plate of oysters and seen your partner a little differently across the table.  Sexual nutrition is important.

Aphrodisiac.
An aphrodisiac: a substance that puts one in the mood for love, can include food, herbs, good conversation, moonlight and even lingerie! Aphrodisiacs are named after, Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, fruitfulness, and beauty. They may have a direct effect on the erogenous zones. Some may stimulate, irritate or be a diuretic, causing one to experience more sensation.
 
Aphrodisiacs may affect the mind, cause relaxation and prolong lovemaking. Their shape, texture or smell may be reminiscent of sex; according to an ancient worldwide belief called The Doctrine of Signatures, plants give us hints as to what they are good for, by the way they look, smell, taste, and grow. They may be highly nutritious and by improving health, bring about healthier libido. Both sex and food are closely related by being pleasurable and physical.

Aphrodisiacs can be enjoyed anywhere from half an hour to an hour before making love. Best when they are incorporated into one’s daily life for their health tonifying properties. As good health is essential to sexual vitality, good nutrition is imperative. When we are in poor health, sexual vitality decreases.

- From Care2.com (One of my favourite websites if you havnt already seen)

My Top 10

  

 1. Oysters

Oysters are probably the food most associated with being an aphrodisiac, and most people are aware of their reputation for increasing sexual desire. Oysters may be thought an aphrodisiac because of their high zinc content, which helps produce sperm and increases libido. Raw oysters are best served with a glass of chilled Champagne for a truly romantic meal!

2.  Honey

Sweet, sticky honey is a great source of boron, a trace mineral that helps the body use and metabolize estrogen, the female sex hormone. Studies have shown that this mineral may also enhance testosterone levels in the blood, the hormone responsible for promoting sex drive and orgasm in both men and women. In addition, honey contains B vitamins needed for testosterone, as well as other nutrients, enzymes and phytochemicals.
 

3. Chocolate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Chocolate and rose water contain a chemical called phenylethylamine that is also produced by the brains of people in love and simulates post coital bliss. Chocolate was the love tonic of Montezuma who drank some fifty cups daily, before visiting his harem of six hundred women. During the 1800’s, physicians suggested chocolate to boost libido".

4. Avocado

Just by looking at the shape of avocado, you will see the reason why it was associated with sexuality. The Aztecs called the avocado ahuacuatl, or "testicle tree." They thought the fruit hanging in pairs on the tree resembled testicles. The Catholic priests in Spain found this fruit so obscenely sexual that they forbade it. On the other side, avocado is rich with folic acid, vitamin B6 and potassium. They are also said to boost immune system.

5. Figs                                                                                                   
An arousing stimulant, an open fig is believed to emulate the female sex organs. Figs are steeped in history and are one of the oldest-recorded fruits. They are mentioned in the Bible (Adam and Eve wore fig leaves to cover their private parts), are reported to be Cleopatra’s favorite fruit, and the ancient Greeks held them as sacred and associated them with love and fertility.

6. Almonds

Rough antiquity, almonds were regarded as fertility symbols. The aroma of almond supposedly arouses passion in females -- or so thought the poets and scribes. The scientists say that almonds provide high doses of vitamin E, magnesium and even fiber.


7. Herbs                                                                                               
Use lavish amounts of the culinary herbs in your cuisine, many of which are considered aphrodisiac, including anise, cardamom, cinnamon, cumin, curry (a blend of herbs), paprika, pepper, BASIL and turmeric.

8. Bananas

Bananas are loaded with potassium, magnesium and B vitamins. It also contains chelating minerals and the bromeliad enzyme, said to enhance the male libido.

9. Garlic

Garlic is full of allicin, an ingredient that will increase blood flow. Keep the Altoids handy :)

10. Asparagus

Asparagus is a great source of potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, vitamins A and C, and thiamin and folic acid. The latter is said to boost histamine production necessary for the ability to reach orgasm in both sexes.