Wondering what to serve for Valentine’s day that will fit the “I’m trying to lose my holiday pounds” but still be romantic theme? Luckily, many foods purported to be aphrodisiacs are really good for you and your waistline. So, here’s my suggested menu for the evening:
Appetizer:
Oysters on the half shell – 9.5 calories each
Oysters are loaded with Zinc which helps prevent certain, ahem, kinds of dysfunction. All shellfish, in fact, contain compounds that release testosterone and estrogen.
Dry Champagne – about 100 calories for a 5 ounce glass
Although champagne can’t be actually touted as a health food it does hit the blood stream quickly due to the bubbles which will make you happy, relaxed and less inhibited. The smell of dry champagne is said to be very similar to the smell of female pheromones which creates arousal in males.
Main Course:
Wild Atlantic Salmon – 51 calories per ounce
Salmon is noted for super healthy Omega-3 fatty acids and fatty acids assist in hormone production.
Asparagus – 6 calories per ounce
Asparagus was used as an aphrodisiac as far back as the 17th century; in some cultures it is a traditional wedding food for this reason. The vitamin E in asparagus also assists in the production of those Valentine’s Day happy hormones.
Red Wine – about 125 calories for a 5 ounce glass
Red wine has the same relaxing effects as champagne and it also contains resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that increases blood flow to all essential parts of the body.
Dessert:
Dark Chocolate – 25 calories per square
My favorite dessert has so many great compounds I don’t know where to start. Cacao contains tryptophan, a key component in serotonin which promotes a sense of well-being and relaxation. It also contains anandamide, the psychoactive feel-good chemical, and phenylethylamine nicknamed the “love chemical,” because it releases dopamine in the pleasure centers of the brain.
Fresh Figs – 37 calories in a medium fig
I can’t find any actual science to back up the fig’s arousal properties. I think Adam and Eve gave them a reputation when they covered up with fig leaves in the garden, so if you’re not a fan of the fig any berry would be a nice, healthy accompaniment to chocolate and all are packed with antioxidants and other healthful substances.
Finally, looking and feeling attractive is probably one of the most important components in romance. So, pamper yourself with a spa, salon or aesthetics treatment before the big day and enjoy!