Lots of foods and herbs have been rumoured to be good for the female libido – some more obscure than others. But did you know about apples?
Apples contain antioxidants, phytoestrogens and polyphenols all of which support sexual health.
Foods proven to be good for libido
Some foods (and herbs) have been proven via research and studies to be good for the sex drive.
Macca – has been shown in a study to be good for overcoming antidepressant-induces sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. You can get it in powder, capsules or liquid and it’s available in health food shops as well as online
Tribulus terrestris – one of the more obscure supplements that has been shown to improve sexual desire and arousal when taken regularly. It can be found online and study participants saw an effect after taking 7.5 milligrams daily for 4 weeks.
Saffron – often recommended as an aphrodisiac, has had research back up these properties. In one study women taking antidepressants saw a significant improvement in sexual arousal after taking saffron for 4 weeks.
Apples – a study in Italy in 2012 found that women who had an apple a day regularly, reported improved quality sex life. An apple a day takes on a new meaning…
The above are just a few of the foods shown to have an impact on sexual desire/function and there are also dozens of foods anecdotally thought to be aphrodisiacs – including: chocolate, strawberries, chilli, figs, bananas, the list goes on…
You could go beyond food and supplements…
It is certainly worth considering other aspects of one’s lifestyle to address any concerns regarding sex drive. Other areas worth exploring include:
Stress – increasing stress levels whether related to work or home life can have a significant impact on sex drive. Taking active steps to reduce stress will have a positive effect on the rest of your life not just your sex drive.
Exercise – releases endorphins that in turn reduces stress. Also some studies hove concluded that resistance training can increase sexual desire in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
Yoga – a 2010 study concluded that 12 weeks of yoga practice lead to significant improvement in sex drive and satisfaction.
Sleep – Studies have shown that more/better sleep improve desire and sexual function. We already know that better sleep reduces stress which can have a detrimental effect on sex drive.
What does this mean for me and you?
I believe living mindfully – getting sleep, eating well and reducing stress will always reduce the barriers that can impede sex drive.
That said, Rome was never built in a day – choose one thing to change and stick with it – perhaps eating an apple a day is an easy goal?
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