The Science and History Behind Lobsters & Aphrodisiacs
The Science and History Behind Lobsters & Aphrodisiacs
Over the course of thousands of years, food has been linked historically with sexual stimulation and romantic behavior. Food has always had a sensual nature about it—just observe how we ooh and ahh when indulging in some of our favorite cravings! Historically, aphrodisiacs became associated with human sexual stimulation due in part to their resemblance to certain parts of the human anatomy (take bananas), or because they had a natural abundance, as in the seeds of a pomegranate which was allegedly associated with fertility. Around the turn of the century and into the early 1920’s, ostentatious, extravagant and gaudy food emporiums called “Lobster Palaces”* emerged on the New York nightlife scene, specializing in serving lavish lobster meals to the rich and famous of the day. They were built around New York’s vibrant theater district and Times Square, where people would gather to be wined, dined, and entertained in luxurious surroundings. The first of these palaces, Café Martin, opened in 1899. Another notable palace was called “Murray’s”, which was decorated to capture the architectural decadence of ancient Roman-Pompeian-Egyptian-Babylonian civilization and attract the tourist set. It was also a place where indulging in abundant servings of high-society foods was trendy and appealing to both New York’s wealthiest citizens and the middle class.** So exactly what has led lobster to be considered a catalyst for bedroom behavior? (here’s where we get scientific on you) That can be traced to the nutrients found in lobster meat. Lobster is an excellent source of protein which is low in calories but high in sustaining energy (which is necessary for a long night of lovemaking in case you didn’t know). It’s also a lean meat, containing key ingredients like magnesium and vitamin B12 which are essential nutrients, as well as iodine—a nutrient that helps to regulate the production of hormones.*** As sources of protein, lobsters are rich in it. The protein helps men increase their muscle mass. For women, the protein is helpful in restoring tissue that has been damaged and improves energy. Protein is also helpful in boosting dopamine and norepinephrine which are chemicals the brain produces to elevate sensitivity.**** So along with lobsters, other creatures from the deep such as oysters are packed with vitamins and minerals. Zinc is one of the most powerful vitamins that oysters contain, boosting testosterone output. There are 15 mg of zinc in every 100 grams of lobster. This meets 150% of the amount that adults should get, based on the USDA Nutrient database.***** Now if you can’t get some shellfish on your plate for your love feast, there are alternative foods that qualify as excellent aphrodisiacs to get you both in the mood. There are literally hundreds of stimulating edibles to get your sexy back, and they range from nice and tame to too wild to mention. Here are some of the more popular ones:
- Ginger: To ease your circulation and enhance blood flow to the entire body, ginger has medicinal and aphrodisiac qualities that make it healthy as well as sexy! Ginger is a familiar ingredient in Asian dishes, so the next time you dine on a stir-fry, include some ginger in it if you want to stir things up later!
- Figs: If you want to put a little twist on your romance, pick up some figs. When they’re fresh and ripe they’ll have a soft and subtle texture with an enhanced floral taste. You can enjoy them fresh with a little balsamic vinegar, or you might try them in a chocolate tart to sweeten up the night.
- Asparagus: Who knew? Aside from its rather phallic shape which is believed to give it that reputation, asparagus is also a vitamin packed vegetable — full of calcium, potassium, and vitamin E. Now, we know that not everyone likes asparagus, but just give them a hint of what makes it so special and you just might score a convert.
- Sweets and Fruits: Chocolate and strawberries have always been considered a stimulating aphrodisiac pairing, especially when it comes to intimacy. They’ve been responsible for lots of post-dinner preludes to romance, or enhancers for special occasions. Dipping fresh strawberries in milk chocolate and consuming them while initiating “things” in the bedroom can be the perfect mood setter.
- Bananas: Bananas are naturally blessed with natural energy and also include bromelain, which stimulates testosterone production.
- Dark chocolate: However you get your dark chocolate, go for a big box of it. Dark chocolate has become the go-to-sweet that seems to have powers that can solve just about anything. Maybe it’s because of the phenylethylamine that’s an energy booster. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this one!
- Strawberries: As we covered things with chocolate, strawberries have their benefits too. With so much vitamin C, strawberries help increase the positive feels.
- Chamomile: There are many aphrodisiacs primarily beneficial to men, and Chamomile is one of them. This plant has had a very lengthy history of having medicinal and aphrodisiacal benefits. It’s ability to reduce stress and relieve anxiety is part of the credit it gets for being considered an aphrodisiac.
- Fenugreek: The seed of this plant has a taste similar to that of maple syrup and butterscotch. It was an aphrodisiac choice with ancient roots dating back to Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
These are but a few of the many, many, aphrodisiacs that can found today. And you’d be astonished at what you might find in a search for them! For centuries, humans have been fascinated with foods and substances that may (or may not) have the power to turn on their romantic engines and take them to new heights of pleasure and satisfaction.
*https://ephemeralnewyork.wordpress.com/2010/07/05/when-lobster-palaces-ruled-times-square/
**https://restaurant-ingthroughhistory.com/2008/08/05/cabarets-and-lobster-palaces/
***https://www.thedailymeal.com/eat/maine-lobster-america-s-aphrodisiac?page=1