Nine foods that may boost your libido

Nutritionists have argued that issues related to libido and sexual drive are mostly psychological.

In an interview on Thursday, nutritionist Belinda Nyakiti said that one needs to find out the underlying cause from a doctor.

"Anyone who is experiencing issues with their sex drive and libido  should first see a doctor before resorting to nutritional remedies." Nyakiti said.

Despite sex drive being majorly influenced by psychological factors, some foods contain properties that tend to influence hormones related to libido.

Foods or drinks that stimulate sexual desire are referred to as aphrodisiacs.

A lot of folklore on aphrodisiacs exist and elders at the Coast particularly urge young men to avoid the "little blue pill" as most sex boosters are commonly known and stick to octopus or turtle soup.

Nyakiti, however, reiterated that gaining assistance from food and nutrition to boost libido will only be effective if you have consulted a doctor.

It is also important to note that these foods do not offer guaranteed remedy to low libido although there is a slight possibility.

Humanity has been obsessed with aphrodisiacs for thousands of years and folk tales suggest all kinds of concoctions.

1. Basil

This is an Italian herb that improves the circulation of blood. Since the circulation of blood is vital to sexual stimulation, anything that is good for the heart and blood flow could also possibly improve libido.

2. Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate is known to increase dopamine levels. This is the hormone that is responsible for keeping us happy. It is also good, in moderation, for the heart. The ideal is at least 75 to 80 per cent, numerous studies have shown.

Once your mood has been boosted, there is room to possibly experience sexual desire.

3. Watermelon

Texas A&M Fruit and Vegetable Improvement Center says that watermelon has ingredients that deliver effects to your blood vessels to those of Viagra and this could possibly increase your libido.

4. Pineapple

They contain bromelain, which is necessary for testosterone production. It is also a good source of manganese which might also boost libido.

5. Chia seeds

These seeds could boost testosterone naturally which influences libido.

Testosterone is the male sex hormone although women have it in much smaller quantities.

6. Nuts

Nuts and whole grains contain arginine. Arginine is important to blood flow, especially during sexual arousal.

Groundnuts, walnuts and almonds are useful because they are rich in essential fatty acids, which are crucial in the production of hormones which that boost testosterone.

7. Ginger

This natural spice increases blood flow and testosterone production.

Strong ginger tea could help in boosting your libido.

8. Pumpkin seeds

They contain the hormone serotonin that keeps us happy.

It comes from an amino acid called tryptophan and pumpkin seeds are a great source of tryptophan.

They might also help in boosting your mood and enhance your sex drive.

9.  Pepper/chillies

Peppers have the compound called capsaicin that increases heart rate, dilates blood vessels and releases endorphins which could help in increasing libido.

If a healthy diet and lifestyle do not help your sex drive, you should talk to your doctor.

Finally, Nyakiti said that since sex drive is largely influenced by psychological factors, freeing up your mind should be the first step.

"Maintaining a clean diet and body fitness through exercising also contributes greatly to libido levels," she said.

The health expert also stated that as far as nutrition is concerned, whatever might work for one person may not work for everyone.