Why take a prescription pill to increase your sexual stamina when nature has provided you with an abundance of delicious foods that will do the same? If you are looking to improve your sexual libido, staying power, and even your fertility, just integrate more of these foods into your diet. Your partner will thank you for it!
Maca Root
Maca is a Peruvian root vegetable with legendary properties. For generations, Peruvians have looked to the maca root for strength, energy, and virility. From ancient Peruvian warriors to today’s modern residents, all have used maca to enhance sex drive and combat infertility. In a review published in the Integrative Medicine Journal, it is suggested that maca’s therapeutic actions rely on plant sterols stimulating the hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal, and ovarian glands. Whether you are looking for an increase in fertility, energy, stamina or libido, maca root should be at the top of your list. Try adding maca root powder, readily available at health stores and online, to a stamina-boosting smoothie with almond butter and oats.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, a mineral needed for male fertility. Deficiencies in zinc have been linked to sexual dysfunction, and studies have shown that increased levels of zinc can lead to improved sex drive and function. Over-supplementing with zinc can have a negative effect on libido, so be sure to get your zinc from food, and not by overdoing it with supplements. Try toasting pumpkin seeds and tossing them in chili powder and honey for a sweet and spicy treat that will get, and keep, you going.
Oysters
Oysters have enjoyed a long reputation as the ultimate aphrodisiac, and as far back as the second century A.D. Romans were recommending them as a way to get in the mood. It is no surprise to find out that oysters are high in zinc, the “wing-man” of minerals. Oysters, mussels and clams have also been found to contain D-aspartic acid and NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) compounds which can play a role in testosterone and estrogen release. When date night comes, do as the Romans do, and serve up an oyster appetizer.
Oatmeal
Oats may not sound like the sexiest food, but they are a rich source of L-arginine, an amino acid that has been used to treat erectile dysfunction. In addition, oats are a whole grain with lots of fiber, which has been found tolower cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health. That means better blood flow throughout the whole body, particularly in the arteries surrounding the genital area. Start off your day with a bowl of whole grain oats, and top it off with some almonds and pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and a punch of stamina.
Sunflower Seeds
One of the foods highest in vitamin E, sunflower seeds can help aid in the production of sex hormones, which are directly responsible for attraction and desire. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant that can help fight free radical damage that can lead to premature aging. Enjoy a sunflower seed snack, and you might feel better, look better, and perform better.
Almonds
In addition to plenty of vitamin E, almonds also contain the amino acid L-arginine that is responsible for blood flow and used to treat erectile dysfunction. The calcium, magnesium, and potassium in almonds all play a role in the production of testosterone. Enjoy almonds on top of salads, as a stand-alone snack, or in a super stamina smoothie with maca root powder.
Chilis
Chilis can heat up more than just your salsa. They contain a chemical called capsaicin that can increase blood flow and release endorphins that make you feel good. Chili peppers are also a great source of vitamin C, which in one study,increased the frequency of intercourse in young male participants. Use fresh and dried chili peppers to add spice to your food, and enjoy the heat in and out of the kitchen.
Chocolate
There is no food more synonymous with love than chocolate. Chocolate contains the same chemicals in our brains that are released when you are happy and in love, serotonin and phenylethylamine. Chocolate has been considered an aphrodisiac since the time of the ancient Aztecs. It may not directly relate to increased sexual stamina, but all of the lovey-dovey feel good chemicals in the brain might be just the boost you need.
Salmon
Salmon is a natural stress-buster, which can be a true libido killer; chronic stress can lead to sexual dysfunction and infertility. The Omega-3 essential fatty acids in salmon have been found to be effective in the prevention of stress, by preventing the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline from peaking. Skip on the steak and serve up salmon for dinner for a relaxing evening free from stress.
By including these stamina, libido, and fertility enhancing foods into your regular diet, you can skip the pills and head straight for the sheets. As a bonus, you may experience secondary benefits like better heart health, cholesterol and even reduced stress!