Have you heard? Valentine’s Day is already here.
You probably should have already been planning something, and even if you’ve been told that it’s the thought that counts… you know that this couldn't be further from the truth.
It’s a special time because it’s the one day reserved for you and that special someone in your life, and if you’re still thinking of what you should do this day then start by taking a leaf, or date, out of The Book of Love and creating an epic evening to remember where you’ll taste all the culinary delights that are not only healthy, but get both of your libidos going.
There are countless foods out there that inspire that unrelenting craving but we’ve taken all the leg work upon ourselves and delivered to you what we feel are the most aphrodisiac foods known to man… enough to make even Cupid blush.
Sushi
Sushi is a sort of all-in-one aphrodisiac, from start to finish. It is prepared in a way that in itself looks delectable and if that wasn’t enough, it contains seaweed, avocado and raw fish. Why is that important?
Well, the seaweed contains vitamin E, which has been linked to giving you a boost in sex drive, avocados have long since been regarded as an aphrodisiac since the time of the Aztecs and anything that comes from the sea is blessed by Aphrodite herself. The perfect meal for your Valentine’s Day dinner, especially if you can make it yourself to impress your loved one.
Oysters
One of the most notorious natural aphrodisiacs, although there has been a lot of research that tis somewhat uncertain, it goes without saying that when you think of a food that is an aphrodisiac your mind wanders to oysters, whether you love or hate them. And so, it is ingrained in our culture.
From a health perspective, oysters are high in zinc, which is associated with having a positive effect on testosterone production. This could be why they’re so closely linked to love and fertility. Seafood, in general, is healthy and is highly beneficial to any person’s diet, as long as you don't overdo it.
Dark Chocolate
It goes without question that chocolate, in general, speaks to women on a completely different level than any other food. It’s the taste, the texture, and the sensation that it gives you once it melts in your mouth and you feel the effects taking hold.
Not only has dark chocolate been proven to boost your mood and stimulate blood flow, but it has recently been found to contain collagen, along with a host of healthy antioxidants. For added effect, chocolate doesn't only have to be eaten on Valentine’s Day…
Truffles
The most expensive food in the world, truffles are symbolic of wealth, luxury and high class. They exude distinction and are considered a delicacy all over the world. With a musky scent, these rare treats are sure to put a smile on your significant other’s face.
They are difficult to cultivate and by presenting them on a day such as Valentine’s Day it will show them that they truly mean the world to you, no matter the cost, no matter the sacrifice.
Chili Peppers
We had to add something spicy when it comes to Valentine’s Day, because not everyone enjoys a low key affair, some like it hot.
Chili peppers taste the way that they do because of capsaicin. When you feel that burn, you’ll also notice that your body heats up and there’s more blood flow. As your body is undergoing this transformation it’ll also trigger your brain to release endorphins, those feel-good chemicals to put you on a happy high.
Strawberries
Strawberries and (low fat) whipped cream anyone?
The images created in your mind that strawberries create elicit romance and desire…
But they’re not only for show; strawberries are packed with vitamin C, folate, potassium, manganese, dietary fiber, and magnesium. Yes, all of that can be found in those voluptuous berries so don’t hold back.
Honey
Even some of the most intimate love songs have been based on this sweet nectar created by the bees themselves, one half of the age-old explanation foe explaining how the world works to your kids.
It’s richness in B-vitamins is not to be ignored, and it is the healthy option to making everything that much more, naturally, sweet.
Coffee
Think of how you feel when you wake up feeling a little like you slept on the wrong side of the bed and get your first whiff of freshly brewed coffee, prepared by your partner, taking that first sip, and feeling ready to take on the day ahead. If that doesn't elicit any pleasurable memories, then you’re just waiting to be converted.
Coffee also contains caffeine, and is the world’s most popular natural stimulant, perfect for when you’re winding down your dinner and you’re not ready to go to bed. You’ll feel your mind, body, and soul elevated to a higher level to attain ultimate satisfaction.
Pomegranate
The culinary symbol of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love who is, after all, the origin of the word aphrodisiac needs to be, without question, on this list. Need we say more? Ok, well, apparently the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden wasn’t an apple at all… but a pomegranate!
Lush red to excite your mood, this fruit can also lower cortisol levels, which means less stress. Their anti-inflammatory properties, high vitamin C content and assistance with digestion are but a number of reasons why you should have already been including pomegranates into your daily life.
Red Wine
Ok, ok, we’re cheating a bit for the last one, but how on Earth are you going to have the perfect Valentine’s Day meal without sharing a bottle of red wine? It’s dark, sultry, and will loosen you up, not that you need any extra stimulation.
You’ll be happy to hear that red wine also contains antioxidants, and if you aren’t overdoing it then it can have a positive effect on your health.
Dim the lights, ignite a few scented candles, adorn your plates with the sustenance of the gods and indulge this Valentine’s Day.
