You know your body better than anyone and have probably already determine one or more foods to skip before sex. A huge bowl of chili, for example, may cause your stomach to bloat or Thanksgiving turkey may leave you too sleepy to stay awake past the kids’ bedtime.
But experts know that certain other foods and drinks may put a damper on your sex life, thanks to their ability to decrease your libido, clog the arteries needed to maintain an erection, decrease your sensitivity to touch, cause bloating or lead to stomach cramps. Here are a few to steer clear of to maximize your sex life.
1. ENERGY DRINKS
Why to avoid them: Extra sugar may lower testosterone levels.
2. FRENCH FRIES AND HOT DOGS
Why to avoid them: The trans-fat can decrease testosterone and circulation. In addition, the sodium can make it difficult for men with hypertension to maintain an erection.
3. FRUIT AFTER DINNER
Why to avoid it: Because fruits digest faster than many other foods, eating them after a big meal may cause cramps, bloating and other bowel problems.
4. PEPPERMINT
Why to avoid it: Chewing peppermint gum might be good for your breath, but the menthol can decrease testosterone levels and chewing can lead to belching.
5. HIGH-FIBER OATMEAL
Why to avoid it: If your body isn’t used to taking in a lot of fiber, downing a big bowl of oatmeal can make you gassy. In addition, oatmeal produces serotonin. It’s good at reducing stress is smaller amounts, but too much at once can actually lower your libido.
6. ALCOHOL
Why to avoid it: One or two glasses of alcohol may be fine to get you in the mood, but if you drink more than that (or have a very low tolerance), it can make it difficult to maintain your erection. Plus, too much booze can decrease your sensitivity to touch and weaken your orgasm—if you’re able to have one at all.
7. CARBONATED BEVERAGES
Why to avoid them: Any bubbly beverage can make you feel bloated and gassy. Tonic water is one of the worst because in addition to the carbonation, the quinine may lower testosterone levels, zapping your libido. Plus, if you’re trying for a baby, quinine may even lower your sperm count.
