Foods that Boost Libido in Women
When it comes to boosting a person’s libido, most of them often overlook the role of diet in sexual desire and satisfaction. While there is no magical food that can instantly boost one’s desire, certain foods have been found to have aphrodisiac properties to increase libido in women and can help improve sexual desire and function in women.
In this article, we will explore a range of foods that boost female libido. Additionally, we will also discuss food to avoid and provide other helpful tips that can help you create a fulfilling sex life. So, if you want to spice things up in the bedroom, keep reading!
10 Best Foods that Boost Female Libido
Several foods can help boost female libido. Here are some popular options:
Oysters
Oysters are considered a traditional aphrodisiac because they contain essential nutrients and compounds, such as zinc, D-aspartic acid, dopamine, and omega-3 fatty acids, that may improve sexual performance, desire, or arousal. One of the primary reasons why oysters are considered an aphrodisiac is because they contain a good amount of zinc. A single oyster contains 5.5 mg of zinc, which is more than half for adult females. Several studies indicate that zine is essential for preserving sexual health and testosterone levels. Although many people associate testosterone with men, it also positively impacts the female sex drive in small amounts. Additionally, zinc may positively affect fertility as well.
Nuts
Certain nuts like cashews, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, pecans, hazelnuts, peanuts, almonds, and Brazilian nuts are known to promote blood flow throughout the genitals, thus improving sexual function and desire. Similar to oysters, these nuts also contain good amounts of zinc and omega-3 fatty acids that boost desire.
Chocolate
Although there is limited research to support this claim, chocolate is generally considered an aphrodisiac. Chocolate, specifically dark chocolate, is reported to release phenethylamine and serotonin, which increases sexual desire. Studies also show that chocolate is an excellent source of tryptophan, which in turn promotes higher dopamine levels leading to improved sex drive. However, an older study found that there was no difference in libido between women who ate chocolate and who didn’t.
Saffron
Saffron may work to increase sex drive in women, especially those who struggle with depression or take antidepressants. In fact, saffron was considered an aphrodisiac as early as the time of Cleopatra. According to research, women who took 30 mg of saffron every day for a month noticed increased sexual desire and vaginal lubrication than others. Additionally, another study conducted in 2017 examined over 100 participants and concluded that saffron had a positive impact on improving sexual dysfunction.
Chili Peppers
Chili peppers contain an essential ingredient that is responsible for boosting sexual drive, capsaicin. Capsaicin is an active component of chili peppers and is believed to improve sexual function. Upon eating chili peppers, your heart rises, temperature increases, and it triggers the release of endorphins, all of which ultimately lead to boosting sexual experience. Additionally, it can also increase blood flow and stimulate nerve endings, potentially increasing sexual arousal.
Watermelon
As we all know, watermelon is a trove of beneficial nutrients. It’s rich in antioxidants, amino acids, citrulline – a substance that enhances libido and improves vaginal lubrication, and lycopene – a substance that promotes the production of testosterone. Additionally, several studies found that consuming watermelon led to increased libido, vigor, and stamina, all of which are necessary for better sexual performance along with supporting fertility.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been recorded to improve cardiovascular health, lower triglycerides, potentially increase dopamine production and reduce risk for depression, all of which contribute to better libido and orgasm. In fact, a study published in 2018 examined over 500 couples and concluded that partners who ate fish twice a week or more had sex 22% more frequently than those who didn’t. Additionally, they also found that eating more fish helped couples with their fertility, with 92% of partners becoming pregnant compared to 79% of couples who ate fish less often.
Avocado
Known as “superfoods,” avocados contain essential components like vitamin B6 and folic acid, which are vital for female libido and orgasm. Vitamin B6 is an essential vitamin for women, especially postmenopausal. It helps regular sex hormones and boosts libido by regulating estrogen production, testosterone, red blood cells, serotonin, and dopamine production. Similarly, folic acid helps improve blood flow and circulation, thus enhancing sexual function and orgasm quality in women. The presence of both these powerful components makes avocado an excellent food to boost female libido!
Black Raspberries
Black raspberries are rich in various phytochemicals that boost libido and arousal in women. Eating around ten berries or a tablespoon of raspberry seeds may be enough to feel an effect.
Red Ginseng
Ginseng is a popular herb in Chinese medicine. Specifically, red ginseng is known to treat various conditions in men and women, including low libido and sexual function. A study published in 2010 examined 28 menopausal women and discovered that women who consumed red ginseng showed significant improvement in arousal and intercourse. Although several other studies showcase the positive effects of ginseng, experts are still apprehensive about its benefits. In some cases, ginseng can cause headaches, constipation, or minor stomach upsets and can even interfere with blood-thinning medications and the treatment of hormone-sensitive cancers.
Foods that Hinder Female Libido
Now that we have discussed the top aphrodisiac foods, it’s equally important to learn about different foods that can hinder libido and sexual function in women. By avoiding the following foods and making better dietary choices, you can certainly improve your overall sexual health.
- Cheese: Although delicious, cheese that’s processed with antibiotics and growth hormones can disrupt the natural production of estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone, all of which are essential for female libido and sexual function.
- Fried Food: Even though all fried foods aren’t bad, regular consumption of food high in saturated fats can reduce libido by affecting gestation in women.
- Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners: Excessive sugar consumption can negatively impact libido and sexual function. Consuming high levels of sugar can spike insulin levels, which adversely impacts the hormones. Additionally, sugar also reduces testosterone production.
- Beans: Despite being an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, beans can have negative impacts on sexual drive as they contain indigestible sugar. Ingestible sugar can cause gastric issues and lead to lower libido.
Other Helpful Tips
Apart from eating aphrodisiac foods, you can also boost libido and sexual function in other ways. Here’re a few helpful tips that can help you improve your libido and sexual drive naturally.
- Manage Anxiety: High levels of anxiety is a common cause of low libido and sexual function. Try to manage stress by practicing meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or therapy.
- Regular Exercise: Exercising is a fantastic way to boost your libido. In fact, countless studies have discovered that regular and moderate exercise can increase blood flow to the genitals, raise testosterone levels, and enhance overall sexual function.
- Get Adequate Sleep: Without a doubt, sleep is fundamental to good health, including sex drive. Countless research has emphasized the importance of quality sleep and sexual function, concluding that shorter sleep duration and insomnia led to decreased sexual function. When it comes to boosting libido, getting adequate sleep should always be the first step.
Get Help with Dr. Mozhgan
In conclusion, incorporating aphrodisiac foods and maintaining a healthy life can help improve overall sexual health and well-being. While fluctuations in libido are normal, contact a professional if it’s a persistent issue, as there’s a chance you may be experiencing sexual dysfunction. Dr. Mozhgan specializes in treating female sexual dysfunction and can provide personalized treatment. Book an appointment with Dr. Mozhgan and take control of your sexual health!
