All dedicated and passionate foodies should be especially mindful of what they put into their mouths this month. (Please readers, let’s keep it clean!) Dedicated to all matters of the heart, February is the month for lovers (think Valentine’s Day) and also American Heart Month
Capitalizing on the themes of love, hearts and romance seems only natural and a way to connect the sentimental with the practical. What should we be eating that tastes great, is good for you, and revs up the romance in our life? Are these items mutually exclusive? Or, can you have your cake and eat it too? What are the best aphrodisiacs? This foodie went looking for some answers about the sexiest foods that were good for you, too.
What comes to mind when someone says aphrodisiac? If you say “oysters,”then you’re not alone. These mouthwatering mollusks are high in zinc, which raises sperm and testosterone levels, thus increasing libido. They’re also high in heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids. Perhaps this is why Casanova ate 50 raw oysters each day! And hey.. if gulping down oysters isn’t your cup of tea, you can substitute salmon or herring, both which give the body a hearty boost of healthy oils.
Chocolate is another universal aphrodisiac that inspires desire, especially the dark variety, which has been proven to have copious amounts of healthy antioxidants. It also has scientific supporting evidence. “There was a study done showing that chocolate releases endorphins, which isn’t exactly an aphrodisiac, but feeling good can make you feel in the mood for romance,” says Dr. Abigail Schweber, an assistant professor at James Madison University, who teaches a course on the history of food. “It’s not an erotic response, but it is a romantic one.” Chocolate, the “food of the gods,”also contains theobromine, a stimulant similar to caffeine, that helps the brain produce feel-good serotonin. So this is a perfectly legitimate excuse to continue munching on that Valentine candy! You can just tell everyone they’re a proven health food!
Other beneficial and tasty foods that fall into the aphrodisiac category include honey, eggs, almonds, avocados and alcohol (Yes, alcohol!). “A glass of red wine is high in antioxidants from the grape seeds and skin and increases the “good” HDL cholesterol,”says Dr. Vince Mosesso, the medical director of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association. “It also helps prevent blood clotting and plaque formation in arteries” Mosesso suggests drinking in moderation, which we should all be doing anyway. A drink or two can help you relax and assist in lowering your inhibitions, which can be romantic and sexy, as long as you’re in a safe environment (i.e. don’t drink and drive!).
There are quite a few delicious, nutritious and “R-rated”foods available to get you in the mood this month. If you’re looking for some recipe suggestions for these and other great-tasting fare, check out Dee Long’s column, where she lists her best picks for romantic cookbooks.
Now that you know about some of the all-time great aphrodisiacs, what are yours? Let us know about your favorite food that gets you in the mood!