As it turns out, you can eat your way to better sex. But before you reach for that second helping at dinner with the notion that your bloated belly will get you to climax like a champ, think about your heart.
“There is a strong link between the health of the blood vessels and sexual performance and pleasure, so taking care of your heart can improve your sex life,” says Jill Weisenberger, registered dietitian and nutritionist in private practice in Newport News, Va., and author of “Diabetes Weight Loss—Week by Week.”
Weisenberger explains that a man needs healthy blood flow and in turn healthy blood vessels to maintain an erection. Take note, women with healthy blood flow are more likely to get aroused quicker.
“Diabetes also sometimes dampens the sex lives of both men and women,” says Weisenberger. High blood glucose can cause women to have more frequent urinary tract infections, and diabetes may lead to vaginal dryness. Men, too, may have erectile dysfunction that stems from their diabetes.Weisenberger recommends the following foods to support healthy blood vessels:
Nuts of All Types
Squirrels must have amazing sex lives because eating nuts is good for your cholesterol level. Nuts contain heart-healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, phytosterols and more. Tip: Fold slivered almonds into quinoa for added flavor and texture.
Oats and Barley
Both of these grains contain beta-glucan, a fiber that sweeps cholesterol from the digestive tract and improves the action of insulin. These foods are considered to be diabetes power foods by experts because have with fiber and calcium. Tip: Try adding barley to your winter stew for more heartiness, and cut back on the meat.
Black, Green White and Oolong Teas
Tea is packed with flavonoids, a class of phytochemical health-boosters. Tea drinking is associated with healthier blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as reduced risk of heart attack. Skip bottled teas; they don’t contain many, if any, flavonoids. Tip: Order a tea latte instead of your usual espresso laden beverage.
Olive Oil
Replacing unhealthy solid fats with oils will improve heart and blood vessel health. Olive oil has something unique. It has phytochemicals that appear to help relax the blood vessels. Tip: An oil mister, like Misto ($9.99, Amazon), can help keep the cost down from over pouring olive oil, which can get pricey.
Strawberries
They’re not just a cliché. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and benefit your heart and arteries. This creates healthy blood flow for both men and women. As a bonus, strawberries are packed with vitamin C and this combined with its antioxidant properties can increase sperm count. Tip: Add strawberries to your salad. It pairs well with balsamic vinegar.
Avocados
This super fruit is rich in vitamin E. It also has antioxidant properties which may prevent heart disease and promote better blood flow. Keep in mind that men with heart disease are twice as likely to have erectile dysfunction. Tip: Substitute mayonnaise with mashed avocados in your sandwich.
Sweet Potatoes
Filled with potassium, sweet potatoes can help fight high blood pressure, which has been linked to a higher risk of erectile dysfunction. Tip: Opt for sweet potato mash instead of traditional mash, and bring out its flavor with a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Orange Rum Runner
How about a heart-healthy social lubricant? Alcoholic coffee drinks are popular, but “tea dittos”, as they are called, are gaining traction. This cocktail is made with green oolong tea. It lends a smoky base which pairs well with fruit liquors and natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup.Caution: While alcohol can take the edge off, overdoing it actually decreases sexual arousal.
- 12 parts orange rum such as Cruzan or Bacardi
- 4 parts hot green oolong tea
- 1 part honey (or substitute with agave syrup)
- Dash of Triple Sec Orange peel for garnish
Mix all ingredients. Serve in a rocks glass and garnish with the orange peel.