10 foods to increase sex drive

According to a recent study, 42 per cent of daily meat-eaters had sex once a week or more compared to 16 per cent vegetarians.

Researchers say that if one wants to give their sex-life a boost, they should just alter their diet.

According to a story published in The Sun, Harley Street nutritionist ­Rhiannon Lambert said that certain foods have been linked to increasing sex drive, due to their nutritional value and their role in aiding blood flow.

Here are 10 food items that can help increase sex drive.

Apples

Apples are attacked by all sorts of pests, but apple scab, a fungus, is particularly nasty. (Photo: Pixabay)

They are richly packed with the antioxidant quercetin which can help to ease ­symptoms of interstitial cystitis, which can cause lowered sexual desire in women.

Chilli

Chilli contains capsaicin that helps in arousal

Chilli contains ­capsaicin, which produces heat and boosts endorphins – the ­feelgood ­hormone which raises testosterone levels.

Eggs

Eggs

They pack essential nutrients and are rich in vitamins B5 and B6. Research has found this can balance hormone levels and lessen stress – two things which are believed to play a big role in keeping up a healthy libido.

Garlic

Garlic helps in stopping fatty deposits in arteries

It contains a natural anticoagulant – meaning it thins the blood, allowing it to reach sexual organs more easily and helping arousal and orgasm.

Seafood

Seafood is an aphrodisiac

One of the best-known ­aphrodisiac, oysters, clams and scallops contain compounds which raise testosterone and oestrogen levels, so boosting ­sexual desire.

Salmon

Salmon

Known for its  essential fatty acids, omega-3s, they help to maintain a healthy heart and to prevent plaque build-up in our arteries, meaning blood can flow smoothly. This in turn keeps your sex drive thriving. Omega-3s can also raise dopamine levels in the brain which trigger arousal.

Nuts

Nuts

Almonds and cashews are rich in zinc, which can boost blood flow to sexual organs, helping us feel aroused and experience greater sexual pleasure.

Walnuts, ­peanuts and sunflower seeds also contain arginine, used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Meat

Chicken

Chicken contains amino acids carnitine and arginine, which improve blood flow. In both men and women, this is key for sexual response.

Red wine

Red wine

According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found one or two glasses increased sexual desire in women. Red wine contains quercetin, an antioxidant that can boost physical performance by improving the health of blood ­vessels.

Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate has a lot of health benefits. (Photo: Pixabay)

Chocolate with a high cocoa content – typically above 70 per cent – contains a lot of phenylethylamine, which can release similar endorphins to those sparked by sex. Research found this can increase sexual attraction.