To maintain a healthy sex drive, it's crucial to stay fit both physically and mentally. What you eat plays a significant role in keeping your libido in check. Research indicates that dietary factors can significantly influence sexual health and hormonal balance, which are essential for a robust libido.
If you feel like your sex drive isn't what it used to be, it might be time to reassess your diet. Here's a list of top foods that can give your libido a boost while promoting overall health.
1. Apple
Apples live up to the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” They help keep your sex drive active too. Packed with the antioxidant quercetin—similar to what's found in berries and onions—apples promote blood circulation and help manage symptoms of interstitial cystitis (IC) and prostatitis, which can negatively impact sexual function in men and women alike[1].
2. Nuts and Seeds
Opt for healthy nuts and seeds instead of sugary candies and chocolate bars for snacks. Almonds and cashews are loaded with zinc and contain L-arginine, which can enhance your blood circulation. Zinc is particularly important as it plays a crucial role in testosterone production, which is vital for sexual health[4].
3. Salmon
Many of us know that salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and it plays a vital role in boosting your sex drive. Omega-3s help prevent plaque build-up in arteries, improving blood flow throughout the body, which is essential for sexual arousal and function[5].
4. Oysters
Oysters are famous for their aphrodisiac properties. Scallops, clams, and oysters are rich in compounds that can help maintain high levels of estrogen and testosterone. They’re also an excellent source of zinc, aiding in the proper blood flow to your body's various parts, which is crucial for sexual arousal and function[4].
5. Chocolate
Dark chocolate can elevate your mood by promoting the production of endorphins and serotonin, giving you that feel-good factor. The flavonoids present in dark chocolate may also enhance blood flow, potentially improving sexual function[2].
6. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that helps in the prevention of cancer and heart diseases. It's rich in potassium, sulforaphane (a beneficial phytonutrient), beta-carotene, and vitamin C. Broccoli aids in fighting against prostate and colon cancer and can even help enhance libido in women, as it contributes to hormonal balance[3].
For personalized advice on how to improve your health and wellness, consider trying an online doctor consultation. Whether you want to chat with a doctor or seek guidance from an AI doctor, you can easily talk to a doctor online and get the answers you need.
References:
- Ali Alshiekh, Rana Hadakie, M Fadi Al Kurdi, Luna Sukkar, Marwan Alhalabi, Hamoud Hamed. Polycystic ovary syndrome negatively affects sexual function and lower urinary tract symptoms in syrian women: a case-control study.. PubMed. 2025.
- Yujie Shang, Di Han, Kun Deng, Huifang Zhou, Minghua Wu. Quercetin Boosts Pulsatile Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Release to Improve Luteal Function via Inhibiting NF-κB/NLRP3-Mediated Neuron Pyroptosis.. PubMed. 2024.
- Shaoyan Zheng, Yanxia Chen, Mingying Ma, Miaoxia Li. Mechanism of quercetin on the improvement of ovulation disorder and regulation of ovarian CNP/NPR2 in PCOS model rats.. PubMed. 2022.
- Congshun Ma, Qianru Xiang, Ge Song, Xuefei Wang. Quercetin and polycystic ovary syndrome.. PubMed. 2022.
- Meihe Li, Shan Gao, Minchao Kang, Xuan Zhang, Ping Lan, Xiaoling Wu, Xiaofei Yan, Huimin Dang, Jin Zheng. Quercitrin alleviates lipid metabolism disorder in polycystic ovary syndrome-insulin resistance by upregulating PM20D1 in the PI3K/Akt pathway.. PubMed. 2023.