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10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

Note: Our intent here is to provide good and clean content on sexual health. We want to resolve all the mis-conceptions and curiosities about this subject. If you feel uncomfortable because of any article in this section, please let us know.

What if you are given guidelines on foods that are not only delicious, but help to lift up your sex drive? And what if you are warned to stay away from foods which cause impotency or infertility? For example, a body which is deficient in zinc content can suffer from infertility issues. If you consume tea or coffee, then you should be aware of the fact that caffeine may cause low sex drive. Overweight as well as underweight women are prone to low libido and infertility. A particular level of body fat supports ovulation and a fall in such level causes infertility. Same is applicable to obese individuals.

Are you concerned about your shape? Then you might be lacking confidence in relationships! Today's stressful work-life has also contributed towards a fall in energy and interest levels. But there are certain nutrients in food which can boost up your libido and gift you a fantasy-filled sex life:

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10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

1. Antioxidants

These are present in abundance in fruits and fresh vegetables and offer protection against cervical cancer by neutralizing the free radicals synthesised by the body.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

2. Vitamin A

Vitamin A is found in carrots, egg yolk, butter, liver and cheese. It is required to keep the epithelial tissues (consist of sheets of cells which cover the external surface of the body) of the uterus and the vagina in good health.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

3. Vitamin B

Women who are trying to conceive should maintain a diet which is rich in Folic Acid and Vitamin B2. Folic acid can prevent anemia in an expecting mother as it contributes to the synthesis of healthy blood cells. Vitamin B2 supports the development of red blood cells and antibodies. It also supports the healthy development of fetus.

Sources of Folic Acid and Vitamin B2 include bananas, meat, eggs, liver, baker's yeast, lentils, spinach, fish, milk, wheat gram, beans, yogurt, cottage cheese, watercress, pulses, fish, peanuts, spinach, avocado, broccoli, liver, beetroot and oranges.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C specially benefits the male reproductive system by improving the quantity and quality of the sperms. Under a certain condition called agglutination, the sperms stick with each other and cannot reach the ovum. Vitamin C prevents the occurrence of such conditions. Citrus fruits, blackcurrants, kiwi fruits, strawberries and peppers are rich in Vitamin C.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

5. Vitamin E

It is found in sunflower oils and in certain other vegetable oils. Deficiency of Vitamin E can cause neuromuscular problems and anemia. Wheat-germ, avocados, seeds, margarine and nuts are enriched with Vitamin E.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

6. Zinc

Zinc is very essential to boost libido. It supports the production of sperms. Oysters are good sources of zinc. Zinc deficiency is related to low sex drive in women and low sperm count in men. Other sources include brown rice, turkey, red lean meat, shellfish and green leafy vegetables.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

7. Selenium

Selenium facilitates production of ova and sperms. Porridge oats, lean meat, brown rice and offal are rich sources of Selenium.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

8. Phytoestrogens

It is similar to the female estrogen hormone. You can find it in soya beans and soya products such as tofu. Phytoestrogens are known for their cancer prevention properties.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

9. Essential fatty acids

Production of sperms is supported by the intake of essential fatty acids like Linoleic Acid. Sources include nuts, sunflower and other vegetable oils.

10 most important nutrients to boost libido

Last updated on: October 24, 2011 16:13 IST

10. Manganese

Estrogen, the female hormone, requires manganese for its metabolism. Lack of manganese can cause infertility in females. You can find adequate amounts of manganese in foods like oats, spinach, wholegrain cereals, raisins, beans, nuts, wheatgerm, pineapple and tea.

For ages, we have come to learn about the correlation between food and sexual health. Ginger, garlic, onions, carrots, ginseng and aniseed are known for their qualities of enhancement of sexual satisfaction. Dietary intake is the best way to boost sexual health. If you are relying on medications like Viagra or other energy pills, consider effecting a change in your normal diet too!