Happy Valentines Day! Whether you celebrate it or not, we thought we’d share 10 foods to boost your love life! (If ya’ know what we mean!)

Asparagus
“Traditionally, asparagus was thought to be an aphrodisiac for its ambiguous shape, but we know now that it is more due to the nutritional value. Asparagus contains vitamin E that helps with sex hormone production by promoting testosterone in men and oestrogen women. It is also rich in B12, B6 and folic acid that are thought to contribute to nitric oxide functions, which are essential in erectile dysfunction. These nutrients can also reduce stress and increase energy. Also, the amino acid asparagine in asparagus protects the urinary tract from infections, which is one of the main causes of a low sex drive,” explains Michela Vagnini, Nutritionist at Natures Plus.

Berries
Try adding berries to your porridge, or opt for these as a snack to kick-start your libido this Valentines. “Berries are rich in the mineral zinc, which is important for the production of sex hormones and are also high in antioxidants, which helps to optimise blood flow to the sex organs,” says Dr Marilyn Glenville, author of Natural Alternatives to Sugar.

Avocados
Aid your sex drive by adding half an avocado to your salad. “Avocados are rich in folic acid and Vitamin B6, which are both needed for a healthy sex drive. Folic acid provides the body with a healthy energy boost and Vitamin B6, which stabilises the hormones. Avocados are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which naturally boosts your mood,” explains Michela.

Chilli and ginger
“Both chilli and ginger can contribute to good cardiovascular health and can increase blood flow around the body, including to the reproductive organs and erogenous areas. Ginger contains manganese, which is a trace mineral, found throughout the body and is essential to form and trigger the release of the sex hormone testosterone, which is vital for sex drive and sperm production.

“Chilli contains capsaicin, which can help to boost testosterone levels in men and women. Scientists have found that the men who’d doused their food in hot sauce had higher testosterone levels than their peers who’d gone for a milder heat… so let’s make it spicy!” suggests Michela.

Chocolate
“Thank goodness we can eat some (dark) chocolate in the guise that it’ll enhance our sex lives! Simply nibbling a few squares of the ‘good stuff’ after dinner, you’ll help lift your mood enormously, going from stressed to, well…sexy! Go for quality (dark) chocolate (60-70 percent cocoa solids) which contains the potential to relax you, intoxicate you and give you sheer pleasure, all thanks to a nutrient called phenethylamine. It does this by triggering those feel-good hormones; it provides us with tryptophan, which is a great relaxation chemical and it helps quell anxiety. Treat yourself to an Ombar Coconut & Vanilla Centre!” says Cassandra.

Eggs
“Scrambled, poached or fried? However you choose to have your eggs, as they are protein rich they can give your energy and stamina a boost, which could help in the bedroom! Eggs are also a source for L-arginine, an amino acid that can aid in preventing erectile dysfunction,” explains Michela.

Celery
“Celery contains androsterone and androstenol, two pheromones that are involved in triggering your sex drive. When you chew celery stalks the two pheromones travel from your mouth to your brain, which can increase your arousal,” explains Michela.

Fish
“Fish such as wild salmon, sardines, herring and anchovies are all rich in omega-3, which is a multi-tasking hero. Not only does omega-3 help reduce irritability and reduce inflammation in the body, it also enhances your mood, helps balance your hormones, and aids the healthy production of sex hormones. It fights the build-up of plaque in the arteries, thereby improving circulation and increasing sensation. Omega-3 fatty acids also help with sexual response, raising dopamine levels in the brain that trigger arousal. To make sure you’re getting your daily dose go for Natures Plus Ultra Omega 3/6/9” suggests Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns.

Spinach
Add some extra greens to your meals with spinach. “Spinach helps to increase the blood flow to the genitals, which can provide heightened arousal. So, spinach can be a great food to have before intercourse,” suggests Michela.

Oysters
“Oysters boost dopamine, a hormone that increases libido and zinc, which proliferates testosterone and sperm production. Some people also find the act of eating oysters quite erotic, so these could be the delicacy to get you in the mood,” says Michela.