While there’s no scientific evidence that specific foods can directly lower your sex drive, a diet full of cholesterol-raising foods (like high-fat dairy or red meats) may have a negative effect on your libido. High cholesterol can cause clogged arteries and reduced blood flow to many parts of your body — including your pelvic area. Some men with erectile dysfunction can trace their woes to high cholesterol impeding blood flow to the penis. In women, those artery-clogging fat deposits can affect lubrication, making sex painful, or making it difficult to become aroused or to climax.
Eating a diet full of heart-healthy foods, like whole grains, vegetables and fruits, will get your blood pumping and help you to maintain healthy hormone levels. And when you’re looking for a little something extra to get you in the mood, try one of these libido-boosting foods!