If you are familiar with either Venus in the Kitchen or Love’s Cookery Book, you’ll likely already know that wild birds, including turkey, can potentially have a number of sexual benefits. If not, you’ll likely at least know that turkey makes you want to take a good, long nap after consumption. Are the two connected? If so, how exactly does turkey increase your sexual appetite?
Come Thanksgiving, tables across America are laden with plump, golden turkeys. But could this quintessential holiday bird be packing more than just delicious roasted flavor? Some claim turkey possesses surprising aphrodisiac properties that can set the mood for romance. Is it possible that turkey could actually make you horny? Let’s delve into the science and myths linking this poultry to frisky feelings.
The Role of Tryptophan
Much of turkey’s sexy reputation stems from its high levels of the amino acid tryptophan This compound is a precursor for serotonin, the neurotransmitter hormone linked to feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and happiness. Consuming tryptophan-rich foods like turkey is thought to boost serotonin, potentially enhancing mood in a way that can heighten arousal and physical attraction.
Some key points about tryptophan:
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Turkey contains about 250-500 milligrams tryptophan per 4 ounce serving.
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Serotonin influences sexual desire and function by reducing stress and anxiety.
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Higher serotonin may increase intimacy by promoting bonding and affectionate feelings.
However, it’s important to note turkey is not exceptionally high in tryptophan compared to other protein sources like chicken, beef, or dairy. The tryptophan-serotonin connection may be a factor, but turkey’s aphrodisiac reputation involves other elements as well.
The Power of the Placebo Effect
Turkey’s association with holiday feasts and family gatherings may also psychologically influence its perception as romantic. The peak Thanksgiving season from November through December coincides with a spike in conception rates, presumably linked to parties and quality time with loved ones.
In this context, turkey may take on an aphrodisiac mystique through the placebo effect, where simply believing it enhances libido makes it so. Some aspects contributing to this:
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Romanticizing turkey’s role in celebrations due to coinciding with holidays known for intimacy.
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The nostalgic comfort and sense of wellbeing turkey evokes through family rituals.
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Marketing turkey as an indulgent, savory treat that conjures images of bounty and satisfaction.
So while tryptophan has some legitimate science supporting it, the psycho-social effects of the turkey placebo likely also play a role. The mindset of decadence and enjoyment while eating turkey becomes linked to romance.
Nutrients for Sexual Health
Beyond tryptophan, turkey does contain a variety of nutrients that benefit libido and sexual health. These include:
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Zinc: Turkey provides zinc which aids testosterone production and blood flow.
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Protein: High protein keeps energy and stamina up for enhanced performance.
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Selenium: This mineral supports reproductive health and immune system functioning.
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B Vitamins: These aid nerve transmission for sensation and arousal response.
So while not necessarily an aphrodisiac itself, turkey can optimize the dietary building blocks for a healthy sex drive when eaten as part of balanced nutrition.
Creating an Optimal Setting
More so than any specific food, creating an environment conducive to intimacy is key for sparking romance. Turkey can enhance this by contributing to a warm, indulgent atmosphere. Strategies include:
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Serving turkey with candles, soft lighting, music, and wine.
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Encouraging relaxed conversation and laughter through shared turkey meals.
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Using aromatics like rosemary, thyme, and oranges when roasting turkey to stimulate the senses.
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Preparing turkey dishes that feel luxurious, like gravy over biscuits or turkey au gratin.
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Offering massage or sensual touches while enjoying post-turkey relaxation on the couch.
The context of preparing, serving, and enjoying turkey helps cultivate a connection that taps into the food’s aphrodisiac potential, real or perceived.
The Takeaway on Turkey and Libido
While the link between turkey and lust may be exaggerated, this holiday bird can absolutely be incorporated as part of a lifestyle supporting sexual health. Beyond the tryptophan, turkey provides high-quality nutrition for energy and stamina. And by leveraging turkey’s seasonal role in celebrations, it can help create an atmosphere of indulgence, comfort, and connection that sets the stage for romance.
So while turkey may not actually drive up hormones and “make you horny” as is sometimes claimed, it can act as a tasty tool for strengthening relationships. Use turkey to nurture physical wellness, foster quality time, and craft a spirit of indulgence and gratitude. With mindsets adjusted, turkey’s power as an aphrodisiac placebo may start to feel very real. This Thanksgiving, embrace turkey’s potential and you may just find yourself feeling a little friskier than usual.
A Brief Background On Turkey Meat
You likely don’t need anyone telling you that turkey meat is traditionally served and eaten as the main course of Thanksgiving dinner in the United States and Canada. It is usually also a popular option for Christmas meals as well. Despite this, it is a meat that has been eaten by the indigenous people of Mexico, Central America, and the southern United States since antiquity. It was during the 15th century that Spanish conquistadors introduced Aztec turkeys to Europe. In parts of England, the consumption of turkey meat can be dated back to the early 16th century.
However, before the 20th century, it was pork ribs, that was the go-to food option for most North American holidays. Turkeys quickly replaced this tradition because they were so abundant at the time. In fact, they were so abundant during the early years that they were eaten regularly. The pork was not so much available outside of the Thanksgiving-New Year season. It was in Britain in the 17th century that the tradition of serving turkey at Christmas developed among the working class. However, it was also common to serve goose, and this is something that remained predominant until the Victorian Age.
How Does Turkey Enhance Sexual Desires
Turkey is not only known for promoting good blood flow, but it also promotes norepinephrine production. Norepinephrine is something that boosts sex drive. That being said, turkey meat doesn’t boast much of a rich aphrodisiac history. However, it did have one major supporter, and that supporter was none other than the great artist Salvador Dali. He was always known for living on the edge and was a fan of the bird and left several recipes behind.
Does Turkey Actually Make You Sleepy?
FAQ
What does turkey make you?
Turkey contains an amino acid which can promote relaxation.
But while tryptophan does increase your serotonin and melatonin, there isn’t enough in turkey to have a noticeable impact. “Just because a food is considered ‘high’ in tryptophan doesn’t mean that you’ll actually consume enough to feel its effects,” says Dr.
What does turkey do for men?
Turkey is a popular meat that boasts high-quality protein, B vitamins, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus. It may support various aspects of health, including muscle growth and maintenance, due to its rich supply of nutrients. However, it’s best to avoid processed varieties, as these are high in salt.
What does turkey do for the body?
- Helps build and repair muscle
- Helps make enzymes, hormones, and other compounds
- Fuels the body
How much turkey do you need to eat to get sleepy?
- Tryptophan myth: While turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid associated with sleep regulation, the amount is not substantial enough to make you sleepy unless you consume a very large quantity.
- Other factors contribute: The post-meal sleepiness often felt after Thanksgiving is more likely due to overeating, large portions of carbohydrates, and the combination of various foods at the meal.
- No significant sleep effect: Eating a normal serving of turkey will not make you noticeably drowsy.