Doctors discuss foods that can boost sex drive

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Most of the time, loss of libido is linked to relationship issues, stress, tiredness or a medical issue, but changing up your diet can help to bring back some of that fire too. Express.co.uk chatted to the food scientists at Lifesum to find out how food is related to your sex drive and which five foods can boost your libido.

Eating a healthy nutritious diet can play a major role in boosting your sex drive, according to Lifesum’s Advisor and Dietician Christina Jax.

She said: “Certain food and drink enhance libido by increasing the sex hormones testosterone and oestrogen and improving blood flow.

“A healthy diet is associated with improved blood flow and can lead to an increase in sex hormone levels.

“It’s also associated with a lower risk of erectile dysfunction and female sexual dysfunction.

“But, let’s not forget that how you feel can significantly improve your sex drive. Feeling good about yourself, doing regular exercise and getting enough sleep can make a big difference.”

Just as some foods strengthen your sex drive, ultra-processed junk food and fibre-rich foods are mood killers.

Christiana said: “Processed food typically contains high amounts of added sugars and saturated fat.

“This can contribute to inflammation and decrease blood flow, which could lead to erectile dysfunction.

“Fibre-rich foods, including broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and cabbage, are great for overall health, but, if you are not used to a high fibre diet, excessive intake can lead to extra gas and bloating – not a recipe for romance!”

More research is needed before drawing any solid conclusions about food and sex drive because there are multiple factors that impact our physical and mental health, rather than one single nutrient or food.

However, a varied and balanced diet in line with your energy requirement is key for overall health and your sex drive.

The 5 foods to boost your sex drive

Beetroot and beetroot juice

Beetroot and its juice contain high levels of the mineral boron, which helps women to metabolise and use oestrogen, and increases testosterone levels in men.

Beetroot creates nitric oxide in blood vessels, which relaxes them and, according to research, improves blood flow for better orgasms and erections.

Why not whip up a beetroot salad or smoothie?

Mushrooms

Mushrooms contain high levels of antioxidants ergothioneine and glutathione, which, according to research, potentially improve mood and might decrease visible signs of ageing.

Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, including B2 and B9, which help to utilise energy from food and produce red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body, including the sex organs.

Balsamic roasted mushrooms with feta is a great way to slip mushrooms into the diet without forcing it.

Green tea

Green tea contains the antioxidant catechin, which causes blood vessel cells to release nitric oxide.

This increases the size of the blood vessels, improves blood flow to the sex organs and could lead to greater desire.

Green tea also neutralises free radicals that damage and inflame blood vessels. This can help to increase the ability of blood vessels to transport blood throughout the body, including the sex organs.

To feel the full effects, the experts recommended drinking two to three cups daily.

Pistachio nuts

Pistachio nuts are high in protein, fibre and healthy fat, which makes them a healthy addition to pretty much any meal or as a snack.

These nuts can increase blood flow to the penis, according to a study in which males consumed 100g of pistachio nuts daily for three weeks.

They might also help to reduce symptoms of erectile dysfunction, it’s been claimed.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates aren’t only delicious, they are great for your health in a number of ways.

This fruit contains a powerful antioxidant blend, which improves libido by possibly increasing testosterone levels and enhancing blood flow.

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