Keeping your libido up in the summer is much easier with the warm air, revealing clothing and an easy-going atmosphere, but as the weather turns colder and dryer so do our desires! Let’s face it, on an everyday basis it’s hard to feel sexual when we are stressed out with tests and when we are bundled up in our winter clothes (Norwegian sweaters, anyone?). There are many ways to keep your sex drive up, like working out and enjoying vice in moderation, but the one I want to focus on is eating well. Certain foods are considered aphrodisiacs because they help boost your libido. Often the first ones that come to mind are the “romantic” foods like wine and chocolate, but there are plenty aphrodisiacs that are easily accessible in Stav Hall.
Grapes: Okay, so these might not have any aphrodisiac qualities to them, but the fun that we Oles have with them is what makes them flirtatious. The national pastime of Stav Hall is grape throwing. It’s like being a kid in grade school again: we pick on the people we like! That eye contact afterwards screams “I’ll see you later.”
Chocolate: There is a reason that chocolate is seen as one of the romantic foods. Not only does the romantic association get you revved up, but also so do the ingredients. Cocoa contains phenyl ethylamine, which has been said to stimulate feelings of well being. So, although the caf doesn’t serve chocolate bars… maybe a piece of that fudge cake isn’t such a bad idea after all.
Bananas: Beside the obvious phallic symbolism, bananas provide essential nutrients for muscle health. These yellow fruits contain a ton of potassium, which strengthens muscles… and muscle contractions. Yes, that’s right – incorporating potassium into your diet can help strengthen your orgasms. So next time you are in the cafeteria, march over to the produce wall and pick one up. Just, please, don’t make eye contact with anyone while you eat it.
Garlic: Stereotypically, one should never eat garlic on a date, but as long as you have some mints this might be a smart choice. Garlic actually contains allicin, a substance that has many health benefits, one of which is increased blood flow. That increased blood flow throughout your body may make your feel more amorous, but it can also help down there (if you catch my drift). Take advantage of the garlic bread in the caf, because unless you are dating a vampire I think your date will appreciate it.
Celery: Ok, I realize how bland celery is. It is about as sexual as my mother’s Crocs. However, this snack food from our childhood contains some very interesting things: two pheromones called androstenone and androstenol. When they are ingested these two substances boost the males sex drive and let off a smell that woman subconsciously detect. If all else fails, at least it is high in fiber and low in calories.
Honey: Not only is it a pet name or a go-to remedy for a sore throat, but honey also has an aphrodisiac quality. This sweet substance contains vitamin B, and this super powerful vitamin supports the production of testosterone, which is vital to sex drive in both men and women. Put it in your tea or on your cereal – whatever way you take it make sure you get your daily dose.
Vanilla: Mmmm, who doesn’t love the warm smell of vanilla? In perfume it’s enough to make an impression, but eating it can also be effective. Vanilla stimulates nerves, which makes you more sensitive to arousal. Plan to eat some pudding or yogurt with vanilla flavoring for an extra boost during your day.
The good thing about many of these foods is that they are good for your health in general, and that makes choosing libido boosting foods very achievable here at St. Olaf. However, if you see someone with a caf tray consisting of chocolate torte, bananas, celery, garlic bread from the home line and some vanilla yogurt with honey on top…well, just give them a knowing wink.