Dear men, in with the oysters, out with the viagra…tumewawarn!
By 2020, the average price of genuine sexual enhancement drugs such as Viagra cost Sh 1,000 a tablet while Cialis cost Sh 1,200 a tablet. Generic drugs cost Sh 100 or Sh 50 per tablet- they come cheap but the side effects are greater. With the market inflation today, the prices in 2024 are higher.
On the other hand, the current average price of oysters in Kenya is Sh 182.25 per kilogram. These oysters could be the difference between a man having a weak bed game and a bed game worth legends being created, overshared and foretold over the next few hen nights.
Of course, oysters are just part of the menu. Here’s what we mean…
Studies have shown there is a correlation between certain foods consumed and how they impact sexual health and wellness. According to a 2013 research on Exploring scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs, “the hunt for natural supplement aphrodisiacs from medicinal plants is being intensified mainly because of its fewer side effects.”
According to the study, aphrodisiacs can be classified by their mode of action into three types: those that increase libido, potency or sexual pleasure. The aforementioned hunt for natural aphrodisiacs is therefore a ‘turn away’ from pharmaceutical-approved sexual enhancement drugs which have more side effects than benefits.
The top foods found to have aphrodisiac qualities included strawberries, raw oysters, chocolate, coffee and honey but despite being natural items being claimed as aphrodisiacs, “there is no or little scientific confirmation supporting those assertions.”
Speaking to Nairobi News, Mr Inyangu Agara, a Nutritionist, listed and explained how some specific nutrients and foods positively impact sexual health and wellness.
“We have Omega-3 fatty acids found in green salmon, walnuts, flax seeds as well as chia seeds; and supports heart health which is vital to combat sexual dysfunction. Antioxidants, vitamins and minerals in fruits and vegetables also help to tackle oxidative stress and inflammation thus, generally bolsters health and plays a role in sexual function. We have the oysters which are categorized with beef, pumpkin seeds and chick peas which are rich in zinc which plays a great role in testosterone production and sperm health- ultimately affecting libido and fertility positively,” began Mr Agara.
He went on to further mention Argine- which is an amino acid found in nuts, seeds and legumes- which is responsible for the dilation of blood vessels. Well dilated blood vessels improve blood flow to the genitals and this is also great for sexual function.
“Magnesium contained in green vegetables, nuts, whole grains and legumes participates in nerve reception and muscle relaxation- and this aids in stimulating pleasure and support of sexual function. There are also B Vitamins found in lean meats, whole grains and leafy greens which have various functions and among them is their criticality in maintaining arousal and performance,” added Mr Agara.
He went on, “a good diet of the aforementioned foods and nutrients plays a key role in hormone production and regulation and blood sugar regulation because normal blood sugar levels are extremely important for hormonal balance and insulin sensitivity as the insulin spikes contribute to disturbance of hormonal functions.”
Despite food having the aforementioned capabilities in impacting sexual health and wellness, there are some dietary restrictions that should be considered, especially among men who are already dealing with sexual dysfunction. They must avoid processed foods, added sugars, alcohol and high doses of caffeine.
At the end of the day, there is hope for all maintaining a good diet for personal sexual wellness.
“Through concentrating on nutrient-rich foods, keeping fit, regulating the sugar level and lowering the inflammation, people can perform well at hormone levels and approach improved sexual wellness using dietary choices. Nevertheless, consulting with a healthcare authority or nutritionist is necessary for tailored dietary advice, particularly if you have some health problem that is a possible cause of sexual dysfunction,” concluded Mr Agara.