It’s nearly that time of year again… love is in the air and Valentines is almost upon us. Time to start planning special treats for those we love. However, meals out and boxes of chocolate are not a friend to those of us who are trying to lose weight fast so why not get ahead of the game this year and plan a cosy meal in for your loved one? Here are some super healthy foods that you can incorporate in your valentines dinner which will benefit your health and your love life!
Chillies
Hot chillies contain a chemical called capsaicin which stimulates the release of endorphins. It increases circulation, boosts blood flow and energy levels and stimulates nerve endings. Chillies can be added to a variety of dishes to add flavor and spice.
Chocolate (70% cocoa)
Phenylethylamine, a compound found in chocolate promotes feelings of well-being and excitement. It also contains methylxanthines which stimulate the transmission and conduction of nerve impulses. Why not make strawberries dipped in dark chocolate for an indulgent dessert.
Basil
For years people have believed that basil stimulates sex drive and boosts fertility as well as producing a general sense of well being. Basil is one of the many aphrodisiacs that may have the property of promoting circulation.
Add a good handful of leaves to a salad or make home made pesto – why not top a fish fillet with the pesto and bake it in the oven.
Oysters
They’re a well known aphrodisiac and rightly so. Oysters are full of zinc, a mineral that increases the production of testosterone, which is linked to improved fertility and a higher sex drive.
Pumpkin Seeds
As well as being a good source of zinc, pumpkin seeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote healthy arteries and capillaries boosting blood flow to the right places! Sprinkle them on salads or soups.
Watermelon
This tasty fruit contains the phytonutrient citrulline, which leads to an increase in the amount of nitric oxide in your body which causes blood vessels to relax and speeds up circulation. As a result, you’ll get more aroused in less time.
Cut up slices of fresh watermelon and eat as a healthy dessert, or practice your cocktail making skills and make yourself a watermelon martini.
Cardamom
Cardamom is known as ‘The Queen of Spices’ due to it’s aromatic aroma. Certain cultures consider it a powerful aphrodisiac and claim it is beneficial in treating impotence. Try adding it to a homemade curry.
Ginger
Ginger elevates heart rates and increases the body temperature. Over the centuries, people have taken ginger to help gain the affections of a loved one and even The Kama Sutra promotes this practice.
Try making fresh lemon and ginger tea by thinly slicing lemon and ginger root and making tea in a pot with some boiling water.
Maca Root
Sworn by the Peruvians to be the most powerful aphrodisiac ever, Maca root is believed to boost sexual strength and libido. A super food, Maca root also improves immunity and can be used in cooking or taken as a supplement.
