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Oysters and That Loving Feeling
Carlos Santo MS, NMD
For centuries there has been a worldwide search for the magic substance that could increase a person's sexual powers, prowess, or desire. Among the many items that have been claimed to have such an effect are ginseng root, animal horns, turtles' eggs, and oysters. While there is limited scientific evidence that an actual aphrodisiac response occurs with these or any other substances, many would argue that they have had some success with one or more such things in the past.
In the case of oysters, probably the classic among the alleged aphrodisiacs, chemical analysis shows that it consists of water, protein and carbohydrates, plus small amounts of fat, sugar and minerals. None of these components is in any way known to affect sex drive or performance. One thing that does bring credibility to the oyster myth, however, is the fact that these slippery critters are full of zinc. Zinc deficiency can cause impotence in men, so any food rich in zinc is considered an aphrodisiac in that respect, and oysters happen to be loaded with the substance.
What’s Your Signature?
All substances in nature, plant, animal, or mineral, have a signature, whose character, based for example on shape, color, or scent, is determined by something other than just their chemical content. Rhinoceros horn, deer antler, and ginseng root, for instance, are considered phallic in shape, and have been prized for centuries for enhancing masculine virility.
Back to our oyster friends, along with their other slippery companions, scallops and mussels, their consistency is reminiscent (to some, at least) of the female genitalia. If nothing else, their signature is potentially stimulatory of sexual mood, and can more than likely keep lovers in sync while discussing plans for um, dessert.
While the notion that the shape of an unrelated object should qualify it as an aphrodisiac seems absurd to most, people continue to view some foods as aphrodisiacs. Just surf the internet for examples of some highly erotic food arrangements and see for yourself. Not all of these are legal to purchase, in part to protect endangered species, so keep that in mind as you search.
It Starts In Our Heads
A recent survey commissioned in Great Britain by none other than Cadbury, asked a nationally representative sample of 1,524 adults about their favorite treat. About 52 per cent of the women said they would choose chocolate over sex. Now guys, if it’s any consolation, chocolate also came ahead of shopping and being with friends in this study as well.
Chocolate contains phenyl ethylamine, a chemical that boosts "feel good" endorphins. Luckily for the myth, chocolate also contains caffeine, so it can give you the impression that you are aroused by shaking things up a bit. And since the vast majority of sexual dysfunction in both genders is mental in origin, it’s smart to look here first when seeking a cure.
Oh, and speaking of headaches, the endorphins released by sex also act as painkillers. So the next time your partner uses the age-old excuse, just share this little tidbit to sway their decision before reaching for an aspirin.
$5 Boost Anyone?
Coffee, like any caffeine-rich food, stimulates the body, which is why it's often considered for enhancing sexual arousal. Caffeine definitely does increase alertness, and will lift low spirits for sure, so it’s no coincidence that the lines at Starbucks are consistently long throughout the day. Even thinking about that first sip starts an array of chemical reactions that fire up mood, energy, and concentration that lasts for hours afterwards.
A Bad Combination
Alcohol traverses all social circles in its reputation for helping people let their guard down in the sexual arena. It has the ability to lower sexual inhibitions, thus allowing sexual desire to emerge. Alcohol's agenda is furthered by the advertising industry. Just watch a beer commercial and what do you see? Average, everyday guys with stunning model types, all for the price of a brew.
The fact is that alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant, physically inhibiting the sexual response, including the capacity for erection and orgasm. And when combined with the increased risk of a woman to place herself in an unsafe situation, alcohol should always be used with caution in social settings.
There are a number of other plants, vitamins, and animal parts whose sexual enhancing properties have been touted for millennia by various cultures. But the research continues to come down the mind. If you think it’s going to help, it probably will. Keep an open mind and give oysters a try.
If oysters aren’t your thing, don’t worry, because there’s a lot more to choose from in the world of sexual performance enhancing substances.
Healthiest Regards,
Dr. Carlos
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