10 Foods That Help Increase Libido in Men and Women

It is okay to look for ways to spice up your sex life as things can get, well… boring. While many go for the most obvious solution, Viagra, there are some natural ways that you can boost your libido and sex drive. Interestingly enough, studies have shown that there are many foods and various ingredients that have the power to cure erectile dysfunction (ED) and amp up your sex life. Here are some foods to consider adding to your nutrition plan to help increase libido in men and women. 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to treat or diagnose any condition. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor if you have libido issues and are looking to increase libido.

What is Libido?

Libido refers to a person’s overall sexual drive or desire for sexual activity. It is often used to describe the psychological and physiological factors that contribute to an individual’s interest in engaging in sexual behavior. Libido can vary greatly from person to person and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, emotional and psychological well-being, relationship dynamics, cultural and societal influences, and physical health. When you optimize these things, you can naturally increase libido.

The term “libido” was popularized by Sigmund Freud, the renowned psychologist, as a part of his psychoanalytic theories. According to Freud, libido is an essential aspect of the human psyche, representing the energy associated with sexual instincts and desires.

Related Article: Manzilian Wax — The Bare Truth of The Benefits for Men

It’s important to note that libido can fluctuate over time due to various factors, such as stress, medical conditions, medications, age, and life circumstances. Some people might have a naturally high libido, while others might experience periods of lower libido. Understanding and addressing the factors that affect and may increase libido can be important for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling sexual life.

Can You Naturally Increase Libido?

Yes, there are several lifestyle factors and strategies that can potentially help naturally increase libido for some individuals. It’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s body and circumstances are different, so what works for one person might not necessarily work for another. Here are some tips that could help:

  1. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can support overall health, which in turn can positively impact libido. Certain foods, such as those rich in zinc (like oysters), vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish), have been linked to improved sexual health.
  2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can boost circulation, improve mood, and increase overall energy levels, all of which can contribute to a healthier libido.
  3. Stress Management: High levels of stress can negatively impact libido. Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness can help lower stress levels and improve sexual desire.
  4. Adequate Sleep: Quality sleep is important for overall well-being, including sexual health. Sleep deprivation can lead to fatigue and reduced libido.
  5. Communication: Open communication with your partner about your desires, preferences, and concerns can help create a supportive and understanding environment that is conducive to a healthy sexual relationship.
  6. Maintain Emotional Well-being: Mental and emotional well-being play a significant role in sexual desire. Addressing any underlying psychological issues or seeking therapy can positively affect libido.
  7. Intimacy and Connection: Engaging in activities that promote intimacy and emotional connection with your partner can help enhance the desire for sexual activity.
  8. Avoid Substance Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption and recreational drug use can negatively impact libido. Moderation or avoidance of such substances can be beneficial.
  9. Hormonal Balance: Some medical conditions or medications can affect hormone levels, which might impact libido. Consult a healthcare professional if you suspect hormonal imbalances.
  10. Explore Fantasies: Engaging in sexual fantasies and trying new things can help increase sexual excitement and desire.

Foods That Can Increase Libido

Below are 10 foods you should eat that can naturally increase libido:

1.      Avocados 

Inherently rich in vitamin E, avocados not only improve our immune system, but the presence of fatty acids can help protect us against metabolic syndrome. When we can put up a fight against metabolic syndrome, there is a lower chance of suffering from erectile dysfunction. Besides, the presence of vitamin B6 found in avocados may also enhance the sexual appetite in women. 

2.      Pistachios 

A healthy bowl of pistachios each day has shown some pretty substantial results when it comes to the ability to increase libido. Consumption of pistachios for three weeks has been shown to improve cases of erectile dysfunction in men. Additionally, being counted amongst foods to increase libido, a healthy serving of pistachios has been shown to better regulate lipid levels. 

3.      Dark Chocolate 

Casually referred to as the “feel good” neurotransmitters, serotonin and dopamine results were off the charts after the consumption of dark chocolate. The presence of an antioxidant called flavanol has been known to increase blood flow which can help increase blood flow to all the right areas when you’re in the mood. This enhanced blood flow can help get things hard, stay hard, and get the job done. In addition, dark chocolate can increase libido in men and women, which is why it’s highly recommended before planning any type of bedroom cardio session. 

4.      Fatty Fish 

Even though fish, in general, has dietary benefits of its own, fatty variants of fish like tuna, sardines, and salmon are known for their omega-3 fatty acid content, which increases dopamine levels in the brain and counts amongst foods that can help naturally increase libido. The fact that these types of fish are full of high-quality protein and in such low levels of overall calories means that you have the ability to attain a leaner physique that also performs better. 

5.      Pomegranates 

A two-week study carried out at the Queen Mary University in Edinburgh shows that pomegranates, with their high levels of antioxidants, can increase libido in men and women. It is also known for its ability to improve testosterone production and help add muscle. Since pomegranates can be used as a juice or even added to things such as salads, this is definitely one of the foods to consider if you want to increase libido while also having a healthy and sweet treat. 

6.    Watermelon

The contribution of watermelon is unparalleled if you consider its effects. First, it is a natural vasodilator, which means that it can help expand the blood vessels to improve blood flow. Secondly, the presence of vitamin B may strengthen our sexual endurance and overall performance. Finally, vitamin B5 in watermelon can enable you to manage stress better. Lower stress levels also help your body better manage cortisol which can play a role in helping to achieve an orgasm.

7.    Beef

Often understated, people don’t count beef amongst foods that can help increase libido. However, it is important to note that red meat contains fat, which is a natural producer of testosterone in men and women. The body needs fat in order to properly produce and maintain hormones and their overall balance. Zinc, which is found in beef, is also overlooked, but one cannot deny that zinc can help improve fertility. The iron content in things like beef also helps accentuate the production of energy. More energy equals more stamina in the bedroom.

8.    Black Raspberries

According to Dr. Anna Maria and Dr. Brian Clement, items like black raspberries (and even other forms of berries) are extremely rich in phytochemicals, which have their own ways of being able to increase libido in both men and women. They suggest in their book to consume raspberries before you plan on having sex to experience the best results from consuming them. 

9.    Bananas

Bananas have shown their effectiveness as a natural aphrodisiac. The presence of potassium found in bananas has often made erections last longer while also being able to improve sexual endurance. Potassium in bananas has additionally kept the sodium levels in our body under check so that our cardiovascular health doesn’t take a hit. Bananas are one of the most commonly consumed foods to help increase libido.

10.    Oatmeal

Last on our list is oatmeal. Oatmeal, often disregarded because of its bland taste, contains L-arginine, which a well-known amino acid used to improve blood flow and can help improve the sex life of those suffering from erectile dysfunction. Oatmeal also can keep your cholesterol levels in check so that you don’t suffer from atherosclerosis, a disease that affects the arteries when fats and cholesterol stick to the artery walls and restricts the flow of blood throughout the body. This can be a reason why many men suffer from erectile dysfunction.

Apart from these well-known foods that can help increase libido in men and women, there are other examples as well. For instance, red wine is considered an excellent aphrodisiac for the sexual health of women, according to reports. Oysters are also an incredibly potent natural aphrodisiac. Green tea is another beverage that helps in boosting sexual health. All-in-all, consider using the foods mentioned in this article if you wish to take your sex life to new heights or regain what you may have lost over the years.


supplement coupon codes

donate

*Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links or ads, which means we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. These commissions help support the operation and maintenance of our website, allowing us to continue producing free valuable content. Your support is genuinely appreciated, whether you choose to use our links or not. Thank you for being a part of our community and enjoying our content.

PLEASE CONSIDER SHARING THIS ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA TO HELP OTHERS LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS TOPIC. SIMPLY CLICK BELOW!

Matt Weik

Matt Weik, BS, CPT, CSCS, CSN, is the Owner and Head Keyboard Banger of Weik Fitness. He is a well-respected, prolific writer with a global following and a self-proclaimed fitness and supplement nerd. Matt’s content has been featured on thousands of websites, 100+ magazines, and he has authored over a dozen published books.