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Aphrodisiacs: Fact or Fiction?

By Elaine Magee, MPH, RD
Foods that may get you in the mood

Food really can put you in the mood—find out how!

Can certain foods truly stimulate sexual desire, or is it all in our heads? Research shows us that it's mostly the latter—but when it comes to aphrodisiacs, we should never underestimate the power of sensual suggestion.

Between 25 and 63 percent of American women (many of them postmenopausal) have some type of sexual dysfunction. And several major news articles have been published recently that paint a troubling picture of how many married couples today are lucky if they end up "getting lucky." (It seems that job demands, stress and busy schedules are to blame.)

Enter aphrodisiacs. Basically, foods considered aphrodisiacs are those that aim to stimulate the love senses (sight, smell, taste and touch). But can food, or even the simple act of eating, put you in the mood for love? The answer is YES—but not in the way you might think.

No food has been scientifically proven to stimulate the human sex organs. But foods and the act of eating can suggest sex to the mind, which in turn can help stimulate desire in the body. And it certainly doesn't hurt to stack the sexual odds in your favor by enjoying foods you and your partner find sensual!


As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.

Photo: © 2009 Jupiterimages Corporation

SOURCES: Nurse Practitioner Forum, December 2000. Annali Dell Istituto Superiore di Sanita, 2002: vol 38(3). The Change of Life Diet and Cookbook, by Elaine Magee, MPH, RD. WebMD Feature: "Love Grub," published Feb. 1, 2002. Reviewed by Kathleen M. Zelman, MPH, RD, LD.

© 2004 WebMD, Inc. All rights reserved.