Aphrodisiac foods: do they really work for libido and erection problems? | Fellos
Healthy nutrition supports libido and blood vessels, but for real erection problems, Fellos offers medical solutions.
Aphrodisiac foods: do they really work?
Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Maybe you've reserved a table at that restaurant you've been looking forward to for weeks, put on your favorite shirt, and are hoping the evening will end with more than just a good dessert. It's precisely at moments like these that the question arises: are there actually foods that can boost your libido? It is often said that certain foods have aphrodisiac properties, from oysters to chocolate. It is no coincidence that oysters are often depicted in art and literature as a symbol of eroticism and desire; they have represented sensuality and seduction for centuries. But is there any truth to this? And can food really help if you have a low sex drive or suffer from erectile dysfunction?
What do we mean by aphrodisiac foods?
By aphrodisiac foods, we mean foods that are said to increase libido or support sexual function. These are often foods that stimulate blood flow, support hormones, or provide energy. It sounds almost too good to be true: eat something and automatically feel more desire. The reality is more subtle. The effect is mainly in how food supports your body in the long term. Research published in The Journal of Urology shows that erectile problems are strongly related to the health of blood vessels, and that lifestyle and nutrition play an important role in supporting healthy erectile function.
Which foods are known to be aphrodisiacs?
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that men who follow a healthy diet, with plenty of vegetables, fruit, and nuts, have a significantly lower risk of erectile problems because their blood vessels continue to function more healthily. A number of foods are often mentioned for their potential positive effect on libido and erections:
- Oysters are rich in zinc, an essential mineral for testosterone production.
- Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, antioxidants that support blood circulation. It also stimulates the production of dopamine and serotonin, substances that contribute to a feeling of well-being.
- Avocado contains healthy fats and vitamin E, which are important for hormone production and cardiovascular health.
- Nuts contain arginine, an amino acid that aids in the production of nitric oxide. This molecule allows blood vessels to relax, which is essential for erections.
- Capsaicin, the substance that makes chili peppers spicy, stimulates blood circulation and can give you a temporary boost of energy.
These foods contribute to a healthy body. But they are not a miracle cure. They support the basics but do not solve the underlying cause.
What has been proven to have an effect on libido and erections?
These are the foundations of sexual health:
- Exercise improves blood circulation and supports testosterone.
- Stress reduces cortisol, which positively affects libido and erections.
- A healthy weight supports hormones and cardiovascular health.
- Alcohol reduces erection quality, especially with regular use.
Sleep increases testosterone and energy.
For more information, see what Drs. van den Brink wrote about this.
When nutrition is not enough
Many men experience erection problems at some point in their lives. This does not mean that there is anything wrong with you. Sometimes the cause goes deeper than lifestyle alone. Signs to take seriously:
- long-term loss of interest in sex
- difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
- fatigue or low energy levels
- lower self-confidence
The good news is that this is easily treatable.
How Fellos helps with erection problems
At Fellos, it starts with a short online intake. A Dutch doctor assesses your situation and looks at the underlying cause.
Based on this, you will receive a personalized treatment plan. This may consist of:
- medical advice
- lifestyle advice
- and, if appropriate, safe and registered medication. See here which medication may be suitable.
Everything is discreet and completely online. No waiting lines. No awkward conversations. Just clear, professional guidance.
Start your intake at Fellos today and discover what works for you!
Khoo, Jerry, et al. “Comparing Effects of Low- and High-Fat Diets on Sexual Function and Testosterone.” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, (2010)
Maiorino, Maria Ida, et al. “Mediterranean Diet and Erectile Dysfunction.” Journal of Sexual Medicine, (2010)
Yan, Hong, et al. “Dietary Patterns and Erectile Dysfunction.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, (2018)
Fellos hanteert strikte redactionele richtlijnen voor bronnen om de nauwkeurigheid en actualiteit van onze inhoud te waarborgen. Onze inhoud is gebaseerd op wetenschappelijke publicaties, onderzoek van academische instellingen en gerenommeerde medische organisaties. Zie je een fout? Laat het ons weten via [email protected].
Dit artikel is uitsluitend bedoeld voor informatieve doeleinden en vormt geen medisch advies. De informatie hierin is geen vervanging voor professioneel medisch advies en mag hier nooit op worden vertrouwd. Bespreek de risico's en voordelen van elke behandeling altijd met je arts.
Deze content is voor het laatst geüpdatet op
18/2/2026

Op zoek naar een behandeling?
Vul de online vragenlijst in slechts 3 minuten in en onze artsen bepalen samen met jou de meest geschikte behandeling.
Geen wachtrijen, geen ongemakkelijke gesprekken. 100% online en vrij van schaamte of taboes.


.svg.png)