Food aphrodisiacs may boost health, not love life

Food aphrodisiacs may boost health, not love life

    It’s been said that food is the language of love but a Kansas State University nutrition expert and registered dietitian has asserted that food aphrodisiacs may not promote sexual desire. The aphrodisiac effects of certain foods seem to be based on placebo effect more than anything, said Linda Yarrow, assistant professor of human nutrition in the university’s College of Human Ecology. Yarrow noted that the Food and Drug Administration has long maintained that there is no scientific support for claims that food aphrodisiacs can boost sexual desire. But while food aphrodisiacs may not boost your love life, some of them have a lot to love from a nutritional standpoint. Here’s how... 

 
WHAT HISTORY SAYS History however, documents a strong connect between foods that inspire lust and its effects. While honey, strawberries and chocolate are well-known, a few seem bizarre! For example, did you know that a certain love potion popular with the Byzantines was apparently a cake made with donkey milk and honey? Marigolds, also have been regarded as a love potion. A few medical texts also mention mandrake root as an aphrodisiac. Whatever the case, as long as society exists, there will always be research into what foods can arouse passion. Bon appetit!

CHOCOLATE A number of studies have indicated that chocolate can be good for your heart, Yarrow said. Chocolate is made from cocoa bean, which contains flavanols. These have antioxidant effects that can reduce damage to cells and increase vascular function. These can reduce risk for heart disease. “But beware. Most chocolate has added fat and sugar that contributes to overall calories,” Yarrow warned.

EGGS Eggs are a good source of non-meat protein for people who choose to limit or avoid meat products. They are also high in choline, riboflavin and vitamin B12. Yarrow said choline is essential for brain development, which improves focus, learning and memory function. Riboflavin is important for energy metabolism, tissue building and vision. Vitamin B12 helps form red blood cells and helps maintain the central nervous system.

AVOCADOS Avocados have fiber, potassium, vitamin E and folic acid. “Avocados are a a source of monounsaturated fats in the diet. Monounsaturated fats can reduce risk for heart disease when they replace sources of saturated fat,” Yarrow said. They also have carotenoid lutein that protects against macular degeneration and cataracts.

FIGS Figs are a good source of calcium — for healthy bones and teeth — and can provide fiber, which can lower the risk of certain cancers. Yarrow said figs are high in antioxidants and may reduce risk for heart disease. They also have iron, that can prevent anemia. “But use caution. Figs have a laxative effect and
    should be consumed in
    moderation,” she
    said.

BANANAS Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which is a mineral important to muscular function. “Potassium may also lower risk for heart disease and reduce blood pressure. In addition, bananas are a good source of fiber, which reduces risk of constipation and certain cancers,” Yarrow added.

OYSTERS Oysters are an excellent source of the minerals zinc, iron and calcium. Yarrow said zinc helps maintain a healthy immune system and is important in wound healing. Iron is important for preventing anemia and calcium helps maintain strong
    bone health.

ALMONDS Almonds, a non-animal source of protein, is also high in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant and may reduce cancer risk.
Yarrow said almonds have minerals such as magnesium, phosphorous and zinc, and are also a good source of fiber. Studies have shown that people who consume nuts can reduce their risk of heart disease, she said.