Top Foods to Get in the Mood
/Many times our lives can feel so hectic and stress-filled that the idea of “passion” and “romance” are almost laughable. But fostering a healthy sex life has tremendous health benefits even beyond pleasure and intimacy with our partners that women shouldn’t ignore.
For one thing, sexual activity is a major stress reliever and confidence booster. And, regular sexual activity has been shown to boost immunity, foster healthy hearts, relieve pain and actually make women look and feel younger!
What makes us lose our lust?
Ironically, one of the biggest factors impacting women’s libido is stress. Chronic stress diverts the body’s resources for making and supporting sex hormones to making cortisol, the stress hormone. Thus, key hormones become depleted. Other causes include inflammation which depletes neurotransmitters necessary for the sex response, underlying health conditions like hypothyroidism and diets low in fat and essential nutrients.
Lust-Lifting Foods
Fortunately, a number of foods can help replenish missing nutrients as well as your lost sex drive.
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in Vitamin C which can improve circulation to ALL parts of the body as well as enhance sexual desire and combat effects of menopause.
Idea: Steam a few bunches of broccoli on a Sunday, store in an air-tight container and add to your salads and sides throughout the week.
2. Pumpkin seeds
Rich in zinc, pumpkin seeds enhance testosterone production which is needed by both men and women for healthy sexual desire. Other good sources include oysters, grass-fed beef and sesame seeds.
Idea: Aim for half a cup per day sprinkled on yogurt, salads, soups or just as a snack.
3. Salmon
Salmon and other fatty fish like sardines, mackerel and halibut, increase blood flow to the brain and organs. The omega-3’s in salmon can also increase the production of dopamine, the “feel good” neurotransmitter that can help get you in the mood.
Idea: Increase wild-caught fish consumption to two to three times per week. Enjoy salmon burgers, lox and salmon on the grill!
Other foods that help enhance sexual desire include maca, an ancient Mayan supplement, as well as dark chocolate which can help the body lower stress.
So go ahead… enjoy more nutrient-dense, hormone-balancing foods and just maybe your libido will thank you as well!
