Increase your libido naturally with foods and supplements

Wednesday, September 11, 2013 by: J. D. Heyes
Tags: libido, enhancers, food nutrients

(NaturalNews) We've all heard a spate of advertisements recently hawking products that promise to boost performance in the bedroom, but rather than put your body at risk by taking something that could do more harm than good, we thought it would be a nice public service to our readers to examine which foods and supplements naturally help boost libido.

Before we begin, some wise words from Margarita R. Ochoa-Maya, MD, CDE, from the Freedom To Heal site: "Always keep in mind that some supplements also go through the same metabolism pathways that prescription drugs do and in excess even vitamins or supplements can become toxic, or can present with drug to drug interactions and be quite dangerous. ...Always try to discuss with your physician all the prescription drugs, over the counter drugs, vitamins and supplements that you take or wish to take."

Okay, now that we've got the disclaimer out of the way, you should know there really are a number of foods and supplements available to help you and your partner experience a more fulfilling sex life. You don't need to put your health at risk using a drug or other substance when you can enhance your sexual experiences naturally.

Libido-enhancing foods

Raw oysters: Granted, not everyone likes oysters, but they contain a very high zinc content which can raise testosterone production and sperm count, men. It's recommended you buy them fresh and scrub the outer shell well before opening them.

Avocado: This native of central Mexico is a great source of folic acid, vitamin B6 and potassium. It's believed avocados can help metabolize proteins and increase testosterone production, as well as regulate your thyroid gland.

Bananas: Here's the deal. Bananas are full of potassium and B vitamins in general, "but it is its phallic shape that is said to be partially responsible for its aphrodisiac qualities," says the Freedom To Heal blog.

Figs: Researchers believe figs, which are high in amino acids, can also help increase sexual stamina. Nothing wrong with that.

Soy: Soy is a natural phytoestrogen and therefore, may improve and boost hormone levels, thereby improving sexuality.

Other foods include Asparagus, almonds and nuts in general, eggs (which help balance hormone levels), basil (thought to also boost female fertility), brown rice/cheese/turkey (great sources of zinc).

Horny Goat Weed: No, we didn't make this name up. Otherwise known as Yin Yang Huo, this plant, found naturally in Asia, can be used to increase libido in both men and women. "Though the method in which epimedium functions is not entirely known, some researchers suggest that epimedium assists the body in reducing cortisol levels and increasing circulation, thereby allowing the body to experience greater arousal," says "Making Plant Medicine."

Others include L-Arginine, Maca Root, and Yohimbe, though the latter is associated with some potentially severe side effects like irritability, anxiety and heart palpitations.

Besides these foods and supplements, other things can also help improve your bedroom experience.

"Lifestyle changes such as exercising, quitting smoking, decreasing the consumption alcohol, and monitoring the use of prescription drugs, may help increase one's sexual desire," writes Dr. Ochoa-Maya. "Moreover, learning stress management and coping skills along with better communication techniques can be helpful for individuals who experience libido impairment due to a stressful life."

Eat naturally and, um, enjoy.

Sources:

http://www.freedomtoheal.org