Think of the perfect intimate dinner setting. Did you think of oysters when you think of strong aphrodisiacs? Interestingly, almost all shellfish, like prawns, contain aphrodisiacs. In fact, it has been observed that prawns are becoming increasingly served as romantic starters. So, are there any other reasons that could also explain their growing popularity?.
Prawns are full of amino acids, which are neurotransmitters that help keep you sexually healthy. They are also full of important nutrients and vitamins. In addition, prawns also contain Iodine. When it comes to thyroid health and basal metabolism (the body’s natural metabolic rate), this chemical is very important. Low iodine causes thyroid secretion to reduce as well as basal metabolism. This reduces food conversion, which promotes excess fat storage and also causes to the sex drive significantly fall. This illustrates the importance of eating shellfish in general to maintain overall health, such as prawns.
Most prawns are reddish orange in colour. Indeed, our tiger prawns are naturally pigmented with a fiery orange. That, contrasted with white stripes, is incredibly eye-catching and alluring. Nicolas Guégan noticed that men tend to think that the color red (and maybe even its darker shades) indicate more sexual desire. This provides an explanation as to why the femme fatale in films often wears red. Because the color is so striking, it is linked to both danger and passion, desire, love, and lust. This could signify why there is an increase in prawn consumption in respect to oysters which are grey.
Prawns are incredibly versatile. They can compliment and feature in any cuisine, and are also simple and quick to cook with. Likewise, Prawns ooze luxury and class. Because of these things, it’s easy to see why prawns make a great dish, as long as they’re cooked right and presented nicely.
Whether dominating a dish or simply adding fleshy texture, they can send tastebuds tingling purely by their taste. Prawn meat is renowned for really absorbing the flavour of any cuisine, making them deliciously tempting.
Shrimp has a reputation as an aphrodisiac that gets both women and men feeling hot and bothered. But is there any truth to the idea that chowing down on these succulent crustaceans can actually arouse sexual desire?
I decided to dig into the science and folklore behind shrimp as a libido enhancer to find out if this seafood really lives up to its sexy image. Here’s the lowdown on how shrimp affects hormones, circulation, sensation and other factors related to arousal
Why Shrimp is Considered an Aphrodisiac
There are several reasons shrimp has been considered an aphrodisiac throughout history
-
Its appearance – the fleshy, moist texture is suggestive of certain body parts
-
Sensory properties – slippery texture and sweet taste titillate the senses
-
Nutrient content – high in minerals and antioxidants that boost sex drive
-
Cultural lore – many cultures link shellfish with romance and fertility
The nutrients in shrimp offer the most compelling scientific explanation for its aphrodisiac properties. Let’s look at the key compounds involved.
Nutrients in Shrimp That Boost Libido
Shrimp provides several minerals and antioxidants that have been linked with improved sexual function:
-
Zinc – This mineral is essential for testosterone production and sperm health in men. Zinc also impacts vaginal lubrication in women.
-
Selenium – Needed for sperm motility. Also helps with erectile dysfunction.
-
Omega-3s – Improves blood flow for enhanced arousal in both genders. Provides sensation.
-
Astaxanthin – A potent antioxidant that ramps up energy and endurance. Stamina booster.
-
Iodine – Supports thyroid hormone, which regulates metabolism and energy. Low iodine dampens libido.
So by delivering key minerals for sex hormones and antioxidants for better circulation, shrimp lives up to its racy reputation.
Does Shrimp Increase Sexual Pleasure?
Yes, shrimp can heighten physical sensation and pleasure during intimacy due to its high dopamine and omega-3 content:
-
Dopamine – This “pleasure” neurotransmitter in shrimp promotes sensitivity. It’s also released in the brain when we consume aphrodisiacs.
-
Omega-3s – These healthy fatty acids increase blood circulation to erogenous zones, creating enhanced sensation.
Additionally, shrimp provides proteins needed to produce norepinephrine and serotonin – two neurotransmitters important for arousal and achieving orgasm.
Through its impact on hormones and neurotransmitters, shrimp delivers on its promise as a “pleasure enhancer.”
Can Shrimp Boost Sex Drive and Libido?
The minerals and antioxidants in shrimp support sex drive in a few key ways:
-
Testosterone – Zinc, selenium and iodine aid testosterone production in men.
-
Thyroid hormone – Iodine ensures proper metabolism and energy for libido.
-
Blood flow – Omega-3s keeps circulation pumping for enhanced arousal.
-
Sensation – Dopamine and omega-3s increase tactile sensitivity.
-
Endurance – Astaxanthin steps up stamina for improved performance.
So yes, shrimp can give your sex drive and libido a lift through its nutritional support of hormones, circulation and energy.
The Verdict: Shrimp as an Aphrodisiac
Based on extensive research into the nutrients, sensory properties and cultural lore surrounding shrimp, the evidence strongly suggests it can:
- Boost libido and arousal
- Increase tactile sensation and pleasure
- Improve stamina and performance
While oysters tend to get all the attention as an aphrodisiac, science shows shrimp also deserves its racy reputation.
So if you’re looking to add some sizzle to your love life this Valentine’s Day, whip up a romantic dinner with shrimp cocktail, shrimp scampi or seared shrimp skewers. Just keep the portion sizes moderate – too much food can have the opposite effect by diverting blood flow away from where you want it!
Other Sexy Foods to Try
If shellfish isn’t your thing, here are some other proven foods to get you in the mood:
- Oysters
- Dark chocolate
- Asparagus
- Avocados
- Almonds
- Pomegranates
- Peppers
- Garlic
Whip up an aphrodisiac-packed meal of oysters, chocolate fondue and grilled asparagus spears. Or blend up a spicy avocado smoothie with almond milk, cayenne and cinnamon.
Just be sure to include shrimp in the mix and you’ll be primed and ready for passion!
Certain foods can boost your sex drive
FAQ
What does shrimp do for the male body?
Why do I feel good after eating shrimp?
Does shrimp affect hormones?
Does shrimp make you feel full?