You Are What You Eat (And What You Eat Affects Your Libido)

We've all heard the phrase "you are what you eat," but here's a spicy twist, what you eat can seriously impact how much you want to get it on. Your libido and your lunch are more connected than you might think. So before you reach for that third slice of pizza (we don't judge), let's dive into how your diet could be the secret ingredient to spicing things up between the sheets. 

The Science Bit 

Your libido isn't just controlled by your mind, it's a complex interaction between hormones, blood flow, energy levels, and yes, nutrition. When you're not feeding your body the right stuff, everything from testosterone production to circulation can take a hit. And when those systems aren't firing on all cylinders, neither is your sex drive.

Think of your body like a high-performance sports car. You wouldn't put cheap fuel in a Ferrari, right? The same logic applies to your libido; premium nutrition leads to premium performance.

Foods That Make You Go "Ooh” 

Dark Chocolate

Good news, chocolate lovers, your favourite treat isn't just delicious, it's practically medicinal. Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) contains phenylethylamine and serotonin, chemicals that can boost mood and create feelings of pleasure. A study conducted in 2006 found that women who consumed 1 square of dark chocolate a night scored higher on the FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index). Plus, it increases blood flow – and we all know good circulation is essential for... well, everything fun. 

Avocados

Rich in vitamin E, healthy fats, and potassium, avocados support hormone production and improve blood flow. The Aztecs even called the avocado tree the "testicle tree" – and honestly, they weren't wrong about its libido-boosting powers. 

So, next time someone tells you that millennials are eating too much avocado on toast, let them know the boost it gives you. 

Watermelon

This juicy summer fruit contains citrulline, an amino acid that relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation. Some researchers have even compared its effects to Viagra (though you'd need to eat quite a lot to get the same results - Challenge accepted!).

Pomegranates 

Packed with antioxidants that support blood flow and may boost testosterone levels, pomegranates have been considered an aphrodisiac for centuries. In ancient Greece, the pomegranate was one of the biggest symbols of fertility and sexual desire, it was said that Aphrodite (the goddess of love) planted the very first pomegranate tree.  Plus, they're basically nature's way of making healthy eating look incredibly sexy.

Figs

High in amino acids and potassium, figs can boost stamina and sexual health. Legend has it that Cleopatra's favourite fruit was the fig, and we all know how that turned out for her love life.

The Libido Killers: Foods That Put Your Sex Drive to Sleep

Processed Foods

Ultra-processed foods high in trans fats, sodium, and sugar can mess with your hormone levels and energy. That takeaway might taste good in the moment, but it's not doing your libido any favors in the long run. We can’t remember the last time a big mac got us feeling frisky. 

Excessive Alcohol

While a glass of wine might lower inhibitions, too much alcohol actually decreases testosterone and can lead to performance issues. It's all about balance, think quality over quantity. Alcohol also causes reduced vaginal lubrication. There’s even evidence that you might find it harder to have an orgasm – or when you do, it’s less intense than you might usually experience. It might be hard to say no to that dirty martini on date night, try mindful drinking instead to enhance your sex life rather than dull it. 

Too Much Soy

While soy isn't inherently evil, consuming large amounts of highly processed soy products may affect hormone levels. Everything in moderation, including moderation itself.

Nutrients Your Libido is Craving

Zinc

Found in oysters (hence their reputation), pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate, zinc is crucial for overall sexual health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

These healthy fats, found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, improve circulation and heart health, both essential for a healthy sex life.

B Vitamins

B vitamins help convert food into energy and support nervous system function. Find them in leafy greens, eggs, and whole grains.

Vitamin D

Low vitamin D levels are linked to decreased libido. Get some sunshine or add fatty fish and fortified foods to your diet.

Conclusion

Your diet won't magically transform you into a sex god or goddess overnight, but consistently eating foods that support circulation, hormone production, and energy levels can definitely give your libido a helping hand. Plus, taking care of your body often leads to feeling more confident and sexy – and confidence is the ultimate aphrodisiac.

Remember, everyone's body is different, and factors like stress, sleep, medications, and underlying health conditions all play a role in libido. If you're experiencing persistent issues with your sex drive, it's worth chatting with a healthcare professional.

We formulated Libido Lift to contain all the vitamins you might be missing to give your desire that extra boost it's missing. You can read all about our Libido Lift supplement here.

Want More? 

• Try our best-selling Libido Lift, co-formulated by Dr.Sarah Welsh gynae expert and women’s nutritionist Shona Wilkinson. Packed with scientifically proven ingredients to help relight that fire. 

• Ever wondered why your desire for sex seems to change as often as the weather in the UK? Read all about the hormone rollercoaster here. 

• Feeling stressed? Read our guide on how to boost your libido when life gets too much.