10 Healthy Aphrodisiacs for a Heavenly Valentine's Day
Yes, we’re going there (😉). Many 8fit recipes are packed with aphrodisiacs, so we decided to highlight some that’ll help you make the most of those intimate moments this Valentine’s Day.
Aphrodisiacs do more than ignite your sex drive. They also work to restore your mental balance, eliminate stress and produce feel-good endorphins. We recommend starting your Valentine’s Day with your daily dose of exercise to invigorate your body and rejuvenate your mind, then cook a meal using one or more of these healthy aphrodisiacs. Valentine’s Day Bonus: Each recipe shared below is in your 8fit app or on our blog! Add them to your meal plan and enjoy every bite without guilt.
1. Chocolate
Yes, we’re going there (😉). Many 8fit recipes are packed with aphrodisiacs, so we decided to highlight some that’ll help you make the most of those intimate moments this Valentine’s Day.
Aphrodisiacs do more than ignite your sex drive. They also work to restore your mental balance, eliminate stress and produce feel-good endorphins. We recommend starting your Valentine’s Day with your daily dose of exercise to invigorate your body and rejuvenate your mind, then cook a meal using one or more of these healthy aphrodisiacs. Valentine’s Day Bonus: Each recipe shared below is in your 8fit app or on our blog! Add them to your meal plan and enjoy every bite without guilt.
1. Chocolate
Pure, dark chocolate has a centuries-old reputation as an aphrodisiac. It contains anandamide, which is known as the “bliss molecule.” Chocolate in its purest form is also packed with magnesium, phosphorus, antioxidants and libido-enhancing properties. If that wasn’t enough, its phenylethylamine content stimulates the same feel-good hormones your body releases during intercourse and it contains natural caffeine for an energy boost.
Enjoy 8fit’s tantalizing Chocolate Fruit Trio.
2. Avocado
Back in ancient Aztec times, the name for an avocado tree translated to “testicle tree” because of how the fruit hangs. (Note: We did not make this up.) But, that’s not all we have to share about this nutritious fruit. Avocados are rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, potassium and unsaturated fats. The combination of these nutrients helps your body produce testosterone and gives you an added sexual boost.
If you’re in the mood for a quickie, try our Smashed Chickpea & Avocado Sandwich.
3. Honey
Honey contains an abundance of enzymes and vitamins, as well as nitric oxide and boron. Boron helps regulate estrogen and testosterone levels — the hormones responsible for sensual feelings — while nitric oxide helps increase blood flow during arousal. Honey is also a natural source of carbohydrates (sugar), which provides our body with energy and is key in boosting performance, endurance and reducing muscle fatigue. We recommend enjoying honey and all natural sweeteners in moderation.
Recreate that honeymoon feeling with 8fit’s Tangerine & Honey Couscous recipe.
4. Watermelon
Let’s get that watermel’on! (Too much?) Packed with citrulline and lycopene, watermelon acts as a natural stimulant. The citrulline increases the amount of nitric oxide in the blood, which improves circulation. Improved circulation leads to blood vessel relaxation, and can increase sexual arousal. On top of that, as the fruit is composed of more than 90% water, it will help keep you hydrated and increase natural lubrication.
Get yourself a juicy slice of our Watermelon Pizza.
5. Basil
To all pesto lovers out there, keep doing what you’re doing! The scent of basil has been shown to increase lust. Back in the day, women used to rub it onto their skin to attract partners. Like other aphrodisiacs, this sweet herb helps increase circulation, stimulate sexual urges and boost fertility.
If the scent alone doesn’t put you in the mood, pair it with ripe tomatoes like our Basil and Goat Cheese Tomato Bites.
6. Banana
Banana is commonly associated with the you know what. Under that peel, aphrodisiac attributes are plenty. For starters, it contains bromelain, an enzyme that can help maintain testosterone production. It’s also rich in potassium, riboflavin and vitamin B2, which ensures that energy levels stay up during the act.
Take a walk on the wild side with our Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Ice Cream — it’s a crowd favorite.
7. Strawberry
These red, heart-shaped berries provide both visual and sensual delight. Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C which keeps blood flowing to all regions of the body and helps aid the production of sex hormones.
Try a scoop of our Strawberry and Basil Ice Cream with an extra boost of aphrodisiac power courtesy of basil and honey.
8. Turmeric
This yellow spice is typically used curry dishes, but what many people don’t realize is that turmeric is a potent testosterone promoter. Warming spices like turmeric, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg increase blood flow in the abdominal and pelvic areas and are said to stimulate your appetite for both food and intimacy.
Combine turmeric with pistachios and honey in our Turmeric Latte for a lingering libido
9. Chili
The capsaicin in chili peppers stimulates the nerve endings on the tongue and heats up the body all while the brain releases endorphins (the happy hormone). Along with the internal effects, like speeding up your heart rate and making you sweat, they have temporary external effects like flushed skin and swollen lips. These all mimic how you feel and look when you’re aroused.
Spice up your next dinner with chili and cook this Avocado Pasta with Feta, Chilli and Lemon.
10. Olive oil
Packed with antioxidants, olives and their oil have been exploited for their health benefits for centuries. Olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are critical for a healthy heart and blood flow. These essential fatty acids also help provide the reproductive organs with the nutrients they need, while testosterone production is enhanced.
Make 8fit’s Steak with Chimichurri and Parsnip Fries dinner with a burst of chili as well.
