They say you are what you eat, and while many things we consume have a direct impact on our hormones, brain, energy, and stress levels, some can also serve a much sexier purpose: aphrodisiac foods. There are a lot of flavors surrounding foods that supposedly boost our sex lives, and throughout history, several edibles have been hailed as intense aphrodisiacs. Sure, they don't magically make sex better, but some actually increase body temperature; some provide instant energy; some help produce sex hormones; and still others activate neurotransmitters that trigger feelings of love and arousal.

Next time you're looking for something more than massage oils and candles to get you in the mood, try the following aphrodisiac foods.

13 aphrodisiac foods

Bananas

Despite the phallic allusions, bananas have a lot to offer when it comes to increasing sexual desire and being aphrodisiac foods. These fruits provide potassium, a key nutrient for muscle strength (this can make orgasms more intense). They are also packed with nutrients like vitamin B, which are essential for the production of sex hormones.

Avocados

Avocados are superfruits rich in antioxidant properties like vitamin E, potassium, and vitamin B. They are an amazing source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can prevent heart disease and promote better blood flow.

Anything that helps your heart and circulation can also be critical for a healthy sex life. Plus, vitamin E helps your body produce hormones like testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone, which circulate in your bloodstream and stimulate sexual responses.

Cherries

Cherries have a musky aroma that is known to stimulate pheromone production. They contain tons of heart-regulating antioxidants, as well as good vitamins A, C, and E, plus potassium, which is necessary for producing sex hormones.

Vanilla

Vanilla's power as an aphrodisiac food lies in its delicious aroma. Even before a bite reaches the taste buds, the hypothalamus - the gland that controls memory and emotion - is activated, evoking feelings related to the powerful smell of vanilla. When consumed, vanilla enhances sexual strength and kick-starts the central nervous system, making sensations more potent. Adding a few drops of vanilla essence to your bath or eating it on ice cream are good options.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates owe their passion power to antioxidants: they protect the lining of blood vessels, allowing more blood to pass through them. The result? Increased sensitivity.

Salmon

You probably already know that salmon is a stellar source of Omega-3 fatty acids that support a healthy heart, plus they provide shiny hair and skin. Those essential fatty acids also maintain hormonal function and can raise dopamine levels in the brain for maximum arousal.

Hot Chili Peppers

The chemical found in these hot peppers called capsaicin, increases circulation and stimulates nerve endings to increase sensitivity.

Strawberries

Good circulation is a benchmark for good sexual function, and these are rich in antioxidants that benefit your heart and arteries. You can try a strawberry fondue in dark chocolate, another of our suggested aphrodisiac foods, which activates the libido.

Red wine

Wine is a classic aphrodisiac and a great mood-setter. It is known for its power to boost libido. But be mindful of how much you consume, as excessive amounts of wine can lead to drowsiness, and that's the last thing you want when it comes to sex.

Chocolate

Pure chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, has a centuries-old reputation as an aphrodisiac. Cocoa contains the chemical phenylethylamine, a stimulant that produces dopamine sparks in the brain and evokes the kind of feelings that make us more open to sexual activity. The neurotransmitters serotonin and anandamide contribute to feelings of happiness and euphoria during sex. And both are found in chocolate. Get your sweet tooth on!

Watermelon

This summer fruit is known to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and immune systems. Citrulline, present in watermelon, increases nitric oxide which opens blood vessels and speeds up circulation, contributing to increased arousal. There is also a study suggesting that watermelon may have Viagra-like effects on the body. increases nitric oxide which opens

Honey

Honey is packed with B vitamins that support testosterone production. It also contains boron used in the production of estrogen, which is important for female desire. Use it to sweeten a cup of tea or sprinkle some on yogurt.

Almonds

Almonds have been a symbol of fertility for many centuries, and – like vanilla – their aroma is considered to induce passion in women. These nuts are a rich source of essential fatty acids that are also necessary for the production of hormones such as testosterone. They also aid in reproductive function, fertility and a healthy libido.