We are In Love

It’s almost Valentine’s Day – so we are jumping on the bandwagon, but with a twist! We wanted to post about all the different, HEALTHY types of foods that can be an aphrodisiac!

First, let’s discuss what actually happens when you feel “in love.”

There are usually three stages to “falling in love” – the first stage is ‘Lust,’ which is commonly driven by the sexual hormones found in men and women (testosterone and estrogen). T
he second stage is considered the “Attraction” stage, and there are three main neurotransmitters that are involved – adrenaline, dopamine and serotonin. The last stage is called “Attachment,” and this is the bond that really keeps couple together. According to the website, Your Amazing Brain, “…Scientists think there might be two major hormones involved in this feeling of attachment; oxytocin and vasopressin.”

Now that we know exactly HOW the brain and heart find “love,” it’s time to help that along by sharing with you different types of ‘Aphrodisiac foods’!

According to the website, Fuel the Mind, “…The interest in aphrodisiac foods began with Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, rose from the sea on an oyster and then gave birth to Eros. The first aphrodisiac food was born. An aphrodisiac food is one that is believed to stimulate the sex drive and increase sexual performance.”

Basically, these types of foods have the potential to stimulate sexual desire – they are more “suggestive,” but we’re willing to bet you have many of these in your kitchen already!

Without further ado, here are just a few of the foods that could ‘boost’ your Valentine’s Day plans with your loved one. Most people are aware that chocolate and raw oysters are considered aphrodisiac’s, but did you know that these foods were also contenders?

Almonds: Symbol of fertility.
Avocado: Vitamin B6 are in avocados – can increase the male hormone production.
Asparagus: Contains Vitamin E, which can stimulate sex hormones.
Bananas: Contain potassium and B vitamins which are essential for the sex hormone production.
Ginger: Circulatory system stimulant.
Nutmeg: The Chinese believed nutmeg can contribute to procreation during fertility.
Raspberries & Strawberries: High in Vitamin C.

You know the drill…click on the links below for more information about “looooooveeeee” and the right foods to consume!

http://www.youramazingbrain.org/lovesex/sciencelove.htm

http://www.fuelthemind.com/health/nutrition/nutrition_articles/aphrodisiac_foods_article.html