Great sex equals great energy

Have More Sex

Some of us may reflexively laugh at the notion that daily sex will help you live to be 100, but don’t be so quick on the draw (no pun intended). There are a lot of serious health benefits to regular sex, not the least of which is increased energy. (In fact, I can hardly think of anything more energizing than a great sex life, but may be that’s just me).

But what’s no laughing matter is that many of us – including couples in committed relationships – go hundreds of days without sex. In fact, erectile dysfunction (ED) affects 30 million men in the United Stats and half the male population between forty and seventy. According to sexologist Laura Berman, M.D., 43 percent of women reported having some kind of sexual dissatisfaction and one-third of them specifically reported low sexual desire.

Stress, lack of energy, fatigue, depression, anger, and worry are all sexual-appetite killers, and few foods – even the erotic staples such as oysters and chocolate – are going to make much of a dent if your mind is somewhere else. On the other hand, sometimes low libido for men or women has a physical origin. As often or not, it’s a mixture of both desire plus the ability to do something about it.

What’s up with that? And what can we do about it? Read on.

FOOD FOR FOREPLAY
Assuming the “spirit is willing”, we still have to make sure the body is able. First order of business: Improve overall circulation. The beset way to do that is through exercise. Almost any kind will do as long as your heart is pumping, blood is flowing through your organs, and oxygen is cleaning out the cobwebs in the brain.

Exercise also raises “feel-good” chemicals in the brain called catecholamines, making it far more likely that you’ll feel amorous rather than exhausted. Certain yoga postures are said to be fantastic before sex, notably a shoulder stand for men and the butterfly pose for women.

Then there are the sexy foods. Here’s my list of the top eight foods that may increase libido naturally:

1. Almonds (or nuts). These contain important fatty acids that help the brain work better.

2. Avocados. Not only are they a sensual delight, but they also contain important fatty acids that help the brain and the heart.

3. Celery. Guys take note – celery actually contains a small amount of androsterone, a male hormone released in sweat that’s been known to turn women on.

4. Chile peppers. Hot peppers contain capsaicin, which can stimulate circulation.

5. Chocolate. It’s no accident that chocolate is the gift of love. It contains phenylethylamine, a chemical that’s released in the brain when you’re in love.

6. Oysters. High in zinc, which is essential for male sexual functioning, oysters have been associated with sex since the days of Casanova.

7. Figs. Figs are high in amino acids and are believed to increase sexual stamina. Plus, they’re sensual, juicy, and sweet – perfect for “food foreplay”.

8. Nutmeg. According to Daniel Amen, M.D., author of Sex on the Brain: 12 Lessons to Enhance Your Love Life, nutmeg is used in Indian medicine for enhancing desire. In one animal study, an extract of nutmeg had the same effect on mating heavier as Viagra did.

NATURE’S ENERGY APHRODISIAC
High-carbohydrate dishes such as pasta are more likely to lead to snoozing than romancing. Go with energy-producing protein and vegetables, and leave the table just a bit hungry. Some foods, by the sheer nature of their sensuality, can trigger amorous feelings – a juicy peach, for example, or a silky avocado. Foods with luscious textures and tastes are always mood-enhancing. The sheer sensuality of eating them, especially with a partner over a romantic dinner, may lead to even more sensual delights later on.

Finally, to turn on the brain naturally, engage your sense of smell. Almond and coconut are always good bets, and they make great scented candles. Lavender has been shown to be one of the most universal turn-ons, as have – believe it or not – the aroma of pumpkin pie and buttered popcorn for men, and baby power and licorice candy for women.

There’s no aphrodisiac on earth like romantic love – attraction is the ultimate aphrodisiac. It’s better than any supplement, food, or potion. You can’t buy it, eat it, or create it out of nothing, but if you have it – and you body is in good shape – you’re in for a great time.

Remember: Great sex equals great energy. Trust me on this one.