11 Things Every Sexually Active Man Should Know About His Diet

Most people are aware that a healthy lifestyle is the key to a good sex life. However, small, simple changes can also affect libido and testosterone levels. For example, cutting out fast food can have a drastic effect on sexual health. According to Medical Daily, "Indulging in greasy foods like burgers and fries is a no-no when it comes to healthy eating and sex. The trans-fat found in fried foods is known to dramatically decrease the male libido. The adverse effects of consuming these trans-fatty acids [also] include an increase in the amount of abnormal sperm production for men," says Dr. Douglas Heise, a chiropractic physician. Who knew that after-work burger and fries had such an effect on your sex life? 

According to Dr. Harry Fisch, the director of the Male Reproductive Center in New York City, "Alcohol inhibits sexual responses. Erections are slower to rise and quicker to fall and orgasms are delayed." Moral of the story? Next time you're at happy hour, skip that third drink if you're hoping to get lucky.

Fruits and vegetables are powerful weapons in the realm of sexual performance and health. "[Fruits such as] watermelon contains a phytonutrient called citrulline, which the body converts to arginine, an amino acid that boosts nitric oxide levels in the body, which relax blood vessels in the same way a medicine like Viagra does," says Dr. Brian Clement of the Hippocrates Health Institute. Other foods high in citrulline include garlic, onions, and legumes.

Fried foods, available at most of our neighborhood fast-food chains, are a major danger to men's sexual health and performance. The trans-fats found in many of our favorite combinations cause a massive drop in libido and can even cause abnormal sperm production

According to Kirkpatrick, "Cookies, candy and other processed foods tend to be high in trans-fat and simple sugars, which may reduce blood flow and cause inflammation."

"Consumption of any food in excess leads to weight gain, which is the number-one sex drive killer for any man," advises Corey B. Schuler, functional medicine nutritionist at the Metabolic Treatment Center. "The worst food that a man can have for his sex drive is too much of it." 

Refined carbs found in processed breads, crackers, and cookies are diminishing your sexual health. Personal fitness trainer Scott Laidler says, "Refined carbohydrates such as white bread and sugar are the biggest culprits, causing a roller coaster of hormones which loads your body with stress and reduces both libido and fertility."

Spice up your diet to increase circulation and improve sexual health. According to Kristin Kirkpatrick of The Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute, "Chili peppers contain capsaicin, a chemical that dilates vessels and gets the blood flow moving to all body parts."

Ginseng, ginger, and cloves are all remarkable remedies for enhancing libido and regulating male sexual health. Try adding some ginseng to your next cup of tea or shaving some ginger into your weeknight stir-fry.

Vitamin C has been noted for its ability to increase circulation, and increased blood flow is always a plus in the bedroom. Try to incorporate more vitamin C-rich foods, such as bell peppers, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and berries, into your diet for improved circulation.

According to The European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, "Excess amounts of the legume-derived products (soy milk, tofu and sauce) can drastically reduce the levels of testosterone in the blood and decrease your love drive." You may want to rethink the bowls of edamame at your sushi outing. 

According to Kirkpatrick, "Zinc [is] one of the best sex-drive enhancers around. Known for its effects on sexual potency, zinc is also found in oysters, shellfish, lean cuts of chicken, beans, and almonds. Zinc helps preserve testosterone, and zinc deficiency is associated with a higher risk for impotence."