Recently my firefighter and I were out to dinner, as we both scanned the menu we rejoiced in the fact that they had raw oysters on the menu! It’s kind of our thing so of course we ordered a dozen! As we waited for our sexy goodness, I casually asked him, “Do you really think that oysters are an aphrodisiac or is that just lore?” Not skipping a beat, in expected fashion, he gave me a wink, eager to test the theory either way, appreciative I was, yes..but I wanted to more concrete proof!  Oysters for example, are high in Zinc, which has been linked to an increased libido, and it is known to increase the sperm count in men, which explains the enhanced arousal, but what about women?  In a study by Italian and American researches Dr. Fisher and Dr. D’Aniello  put this theory to the test and stumbled upon scientific proof, Dr Fisher and his team, partly funded by the United States National Institutes of Health, bought samples of bivalve molluscs – which also include mussels and clams – from fish markets near Dr D’Aniello’s Naples laboratory. They then used a process called high-performance li-quid chromatography to identify which amino acids were present and in what quantities. They found two unusual ones – D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA).  These amino acids the study went on to say, that were isolated in the oysters, when consumed raw,  increase the sex hormones in both male and female, testosterone in men, and progesterone in women. So there it was!

For instance, chili peppers have also been linked to increased sexual desire and arousal because as these foods are consumed, they stimulate serotonin receptors in the brain, so the “feel good” hormone is working to balance feelings of peace and well being, which may ultimately lead to feelings of intimacy with your partner and the release of oxytocin, yes, that hormone released during childbirth, but it also plays an important role, in bonding, as well as production of sexual hormones in both sexes. Hmm..maybe this is why I love spicy foods?

Another food that you probably consume on a daily, and aren’t even aware of its naughty by nature properties, are Avocados.  As far back as the Aztecs in Mexico, this sexy fruit was coveted as a prized aphrodisiac.  I know, right? Who knew?  Avocodos are high in Vitamin E, which is known for its antioxidant properties as well as aiding with healthy skin and cells. Sexy body, sexy soul, sexy, sex!

Of course chocolate comes to mind. Chocolate is known to trigger Dopamine responders in the brain, leading to feelings of well-being. Now pair this with bananas, which, aside from the obvious phallic symbolism,  contain Bromealin, an enzyme that stimulates Testosterone, this, along with the Potassium and Vitamin B contained within, which is known to elevate energy, and you have yourself a sweet, sexy, and sinful treat coming your way! Pun intended! Let that sink in you like-minded dirty dogs!

In case you needed a reason to consume more leafy greens, and to this I say, “Why do you need a reason to consume more leafy greens?”  They are one of the healthiest things you can do for your body, but if you still require some motivation, leafy green vegetables like arugula are high in phytochemicals such as Beta-Caretine, as well as Vitamin A and C which are key to sexual hormone production. If you were paying attention, by now we all know that is a bonus in the boudoir.

Lastly, a  food that happens to be one a my favorites, and is a staple dessert in many Italian families, are figs. Figs are noted as far back as the Bible, i.e. Adam and Eve.  This is a sexy fruit with the sensuality of the female vagina (notably the flesh of the fruit) packed with Potassium, this antioxidant rich fruit, is virtually sex on a plate! Drizzled with some honey, as I usually prepeare it, which is known to boost production of both male and female sexual hormones and,  “Honey I’m home, never sounded so sweet!”

And you thought food couldn’t be sexy?  I relish the chance to savor and enjoy all that life has to offer.  I think it comes down to this, when you start to see the direct correlation  between what you consume, and how it feeds your body, knowing you are doing good things to prolong its health, spirituality, and vitality, you will feel sexy, strong and empowered, thus everything else follows!  In the days to follow, I will make some sinfully, sexy recipes that you can consume and share with the one you love, think how sensual it would be to be fed an oyster by your partner, as you lovingly tease it out of its lusty shell.  Think of it as nutritional foreplay, a prelude for what’s to come, if you will! Whatever your appetite, food, sexual, or otherwise, there’s always a way to bring a little excitement, romance, and reverence to everyday moments and experiences!  Now get out there and get yourself some oysters, chocolate, and figs, pronto!

Sinfully,

Susan xoxo