6 Foods That May Help Boost Male Sexual Health

By: Paurush Babbar, M.D.

Aphrodite never wore an apron, but she might as well have cooked a thousand recipes for passion-hungry men. 

The Greek goddess of love inspired the word “aphrodisiac,” which describes the foods, drinks, and drugs believed to stimulate sexual desire. Many of the ancient concoctions have lost their credibility, but modern research confirms some foods and drinks can improve your libido and performance.

There’s no myth behind the reason: A body that runs on good nutrition simply runs better. When you give your cells the essential nutrients they need to perform their jobs, such as fighting disease, building strength, and producing energy, your sexual performance improves as well.

The Way to Your Libido Is Your Heart 

The study of aphrodisiacs can be traced back thousands of years. Aristotle advised using peppermint as a sexual stimulant back around 350 BC. Today, scientists suggest heart-healthy foods. 

Your heart is central to sexual performance because it pumps blood through your body, including the genital area. The better your blood circulates, the more effortlessly it can reach the penis to form an erection. A healthy heart also improves stamina.

Research links zinc, vitamin B, flavonoids (plant-based nutrients high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories), and healthy fats with improved male sexual performance and erectile function. 

Foods to Get Passionate About

Every man metabolizes differently, of course. You might require more protein than a friend, while the least bit if gluten might make you feel ill. But generally, the following food classifications are considered effective for improving sexual health. 

1. Shell fish. Some aphrodisiacs have faded from memory, but oysters still open lots of minds to the idea of sex. The reason: zinc. The driving benefits: Zinc is a mineral that metabolizes cells, improves stamina, and regulates male hormones (testosterone). Other zinc-rich shellfish include lobster and crab. 
2. The fruit bowl. Thank you berry much, researchers, for linking high fruit consumption with a 14% reduction in the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED). The driving benefits: Fruits tend to be high in flavonoids and amino acids that improve circulation. Try several servings daily of berries, cherries, apples, citrus fruits, grapes, and watermelon. Of course, if you are diabetic, consult your physician before piling on fruits, which can be high in sugar. 
3. The veggie rainbow. The nutrients in vegetables benefit your whole body, including your heart and therefore blood flow. The driving benefits: Most vegetables are high in fiber, vitamin C, and magnesium, which aid in circulation and metabolism (magnesium also could boost testosterone). Good choices include broccoli, spinach, asparagus, and beets.
4. Nuts (and other healthy fats). Studies suggest that nuts can improve sexual function, enjoyment, and sperm quality. The driving benefits: Nuts contain omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, which strengthen your heart. Almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts are good choices; pine nuts are rich in zinc. Avocado and fatty fish (think sardines and salmon) also contain heart-healthy fats.
5. Hot peppers. If you feel manly eating hot peppers, it might be due to more than the heat. A study published in Physiology & Behavior found men who eat spicy foods tend to have higher-than-average testosterone levels. The driving benefits: Once again, flavonoids give this food its aphrodisiac qualities, along with the chemical capsaicin, which releases mood-lifting endorphins.
6. Dark chocolate. From heart-shaped boxes to hot chocolate, the cocoa bean launches many romantic moments because of its blood-pumping compounds. The driving benefits: Dark chocolate (70% or more) contains circulation-aiding flavonoids and nitric oxide, and also can stimulate dopamine (a pleasure hormone). to put you in the mood.

One Last Morsel of Food for Sexual Thought 

When eating the above foods, take note of how you feel. Are you happy and relaxed? Stress also influences your sexual desire and performance, as might physical conditions such as diabetes and prostate cancer. 

If you believe anxiety or a medical issue are sidelining your sexual drive, aphrodisiacs likely won’t help. But a consultation with one of our physicians may provide insight on treatments for you. 

You can visit the “Sexual Health” page on our website to learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments for many conditions. Watch our short video, “Demystifying Erectile Dysfunction,” here.