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by Shayna Alper

Eating might be more pleasurable than you think. A recent study revealed in the Psychology Today article “The Aphrodisiac: Food and Libido,” by Frank Louis, Ph. D. in Psychology discusses that there is some scientific truth behind the common belief that certain foods can actually increase sex drive.

Try some of these sexy foods and see what happens.

1.Bananas

Bananas have a phallic shape, which makes the connection between this fruit and sex obvious for some. Dr. Louis explained that this is because the brain is the largest sex organ in the body. When we see a banana, it triggers the brain to think about sex, which feeds the sex drive. Bananas contain chelating minerals and bromeliad enzymes, which are proven to increase the male libido. The B vitamins and potassium found in bananas are also necessary for sex-hormone production.

2. Chocolate

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is released during sex and is at its highest levels during orgasm. Chocolate contains a whole lot of phenylethylamine, which releases dopamine.

“I always heard of aphrodisiacs, like wine and oysters, but I thought I was the only one who thought chocolate was sexy,” said Rachel, a UMass Amherst senior. “I didn’t know whether it was because it was so sweet, but I love how the taste of chocolate lingers on my partner’s lips after he eats it. Its the perfect way to get me in the mood.”

3. Chili Peppers

Chili peppers increase heart rate and blood circulation, which mimics the responses that most people have during sex.

“I always get really hot and bothered after I eat spicy food; in both ways,” said Alyssa, a UMass Amherst junior. “I never knew what it was and frankly I thought it was strange because spicy foods usually make you have bad breath, but I don’t know…When my partner makes dinner, he knows to make it spicy.”

4. Oysters

Oysters are one of the most well known aphrodisiacs because they contain a variety of compounds that enhance sexual desire. Oysters contain zinc, which increases sexual desire in men, and also increases sperm count, according to Dr. Louis. Oysters are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which improves nervous system function, which is essential to fueling sexual desire given the brain’s important role in arousal.

5. Avocados

Avocados contain vitamin E, which helps the body produce testosterone, estrogen and progesterone. These hormones circulate throughout the body and actually stimulate clitoral swelling and vaginal lubrication during sex. Dr. Louis explains that avocados are high in healthy fats, which aid in hormone production.

Integrating these foods into your diet may be a fun way to experiment with aphrodisiacs and sex drive, but they will not necessarily affect everyone the same way.