---
title: 11 Healthy Aphrodisiacs to Spice Up Your Valentine's Day
description: Throughout human history, some foods have been celebrated for their ability to heighten libido. The very word aphrodisiac infuses us with sensuality and th
---

[Health Coaching Blog and News | Institute for Integrative Nutrition ](https://www.integrativenutrition.com/blog)

# [11 Healthy Aphrodisiacs to Spice Up Your Valentine's Day](https://www.integrativenutrition.com/blog/2017/02/11-healthy-aphrodisiacs-to-spice-up-your-valentines-day)

 Written by [Integrative Nutrition](https://www.integrativenutrition.com/blog/author/integrative-nutrition) | Jun 8, 2024 2:44:00 PM

Throughout human history, some foods have been celebrated for their ability to heighten libido. The very word *aphrodisiac* infuses us with sensuality and the anticipation of something pleasurable. But while ancient civilizations – and perhaps ancient farmer’s markets – were wise enough to pick up on which foods enhanced the chances or enjoyment of sex, very few understood *why* they were effective. The mystery was part of the allure. 

These days, we know the answer is good ol’ fashioned nutrition!

Aphrodisiac foods contain a multitude of nutrients that are particularly good at things like increasing blood flow, producing hormones, or giving a boost of energy. While our minds are busy lost in a reverie of love, these vitamins, minerals, or fats prime our bodies for action.

Just keep in mind that while increasing these foods can put you in the mood to have a very special Valentine’s Day, don’t expect that any single food will transform a tepid libido overnight. A balanced diet,[ plenty of sleep](https://www.integrativenutrition.com/blog/2017/02/study-reveals-why-we-don-t-get-enough-sleep), and regular exercise are your REAL best bet in having a healthy sex life all year round.

Here are 11 aphrodisiac foods packed with nutrients known to support libido or fertility to share with your lover:

- Cinnamon -  has a warming effect on the body
- Peppers – high in vitamin C
- Celery - androsterone and adrostenol
- Honey – boron
- Pineapple –manganese and thiamine
- Olive oil – monounsaturated fat
- Pine nuts – zinc
- Watermelon – lycopene
- Pumpkin seeds – magnesium
- Chocolate – causes a spike in dopamine
- Avocado – vitamin E

Most of these would go great in a salad if you want to create a colorful aphrodisiac medley.

**What do you like to serve your partner on special days?** Share with us in the comments below! 

*Want to incorporate even more love into your life? Get our free guide *[*Ready for Love: 28 Ways to Open Your Heart to Happiness here*](https://www.integrativenutrition.com/go/get-ready-for-love-2016)*.*

[View full post](https://www.integrativenutrition.com/blog/2017/02/11-healthy-aphrodisiacs-to-spice-up-your-valentines-day)

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