10 foods to boost your man's sex drive

Raw oysters and shellfish

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One of the classic aphrodisiacs, oysters are high in zinc, which raises sperm production and testosterone levels. Oysters also contain dopamine, a brain chemical known to increase the production of sex hormones. Other shellfish – including clams, crabs, lobsters and mussels – are also high in zinc.

Bananas

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Bananas contain the enzyme bromelain, which is believed to increase libido and reverse impotence in men. They are also good sources of potassium and B vitamins like riboflavin, which increase energy levels.

Watermelon

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Watermelon may be 92 per cent water, but it still packs a punch. According to researchers from Texas A&M University, the thirst-quenching fruit may help improve blood flow to erectile tissue, increasing arousal in the same way Viagra helps treat erectile dysfunction.

Avocados

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The Aztecs referred to avocados as testicles because of their shape. Rich in unsaturated fats and low in saturated fats, they are good for the heart and arteries, and keep blood flowing to all the right places. Avocados also contain high levels of folic acid, which helps metabolise proteins and increase energy, and vitamin B6, which increases male hormone production.

Walnuts

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An excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are known to boost dopamine and arginine levels in the brain, which increases the production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is the essential chemical compound for erections – it dilates the blood vessels, allowing blood to travel freely.

Almonds

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Almonds are a prime source of essential fatty acids, which provide the backbone of a man’s hormone production. Almonds, as well as other nuts including walnuts and hazelnuts, are also a great source of L-arginine, which is converted into the sex booster, nitric oxide.

Garlic

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Garlic contains allicin, which has blood thinning properties. It relaxes the arteries and improves blood circulation, which is necessary for an erection. A strong circulation also increases energy and endurance, vital for a vigorous sex session. If the odour is too overpowering, he can try garlic capsules instead.

Oatmeal

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For a fat-free, heart-healthy breakfast, oatmeal is a great choice. Oats boost testosterone levels, which increases sex drive. It also contains L-arginine, which has been used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Red bell pepper

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A cup of red bell peppers contains 190mg of vitamin C – that’s about three times the amount in an orange. According to a study from the University of Texas, men who consumed 200mg of vitamin C a day had better motility and sperm counts. The results significantly improved for men who consumed 1,000mg of vitamin C a day.

Ginseng

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Ginseng, used either in soup or tea, can increase endurance and stamina. It contains the compound ginsenoside, which impacts the gonadal tissue responsible for sperm production. It increases sperm count while heightening sexual satisfaction and can also work to prevent or reduce erectile dysfunction.