Eating well has every benefit to our health. Glowing skin, better weight management, improved energy, optimal immunity, and boosted mood all fall under a balanced, clean, and healthy diet. But how often do we think about our vaginal and reproductive health—let alone our sex drive—when we reach for a snack?
Dr. Heather Bartos, OB-GYN and Creator of The ME Spot™ and Inner-Course™, has a few anecdotal as well as scientific hot takes on what we should all be enjoying more of on our plates to better serve our vaginal and reproductive health. Of course, these foods all have multiple benefits; they aren’t limited to our precious life-giving centers—but when we know what foods to keep stocked for better vaginal health, the compounded results may speak for themselves.
“I like sweet potatoes that contain high amounts of vitamin A. Vitamin A can help strengthen muscle tissue for healthy vaginal and uterine walls (and is the source of Frankie’s famous lube on Grace and Frankie).”
Plain yogurt is chock-full of healthy probiotic bacteria. And since the vagina has a microbiome of its own to keep it pH-balanced and free of infection, additional flora is always welcome.
Cranberries are great for bladder health, which is especially important for those prone to UTIs. Mask the intense flavor by using frozen cranberries or cranberry juice in a smoothie, or opt for cranberry pills.
“Apples contain the phytoestrogen phloridzin, as well as antioxidants, which help stimulate vaginal blood flow.”
“Throughout history, pomegranate has been known as a symbol of fertility and a sex enhancer. Turns out that there’s some truth to these tales. Experts say that drinking pomegranate juice can boost your mood, improve your blood flow, and raise your testosterone levels.”
“Sardines…OK, hear me out. Omega-3s spike dopamine, a brain chemical released during orgasm that improves blood flow and triggers arousal.”
For increased sensitivity
“Some research shows that the supplement form of saffron may improve erectile dysfunction in men and arousal issues in women. Cleopatra appears in many myths about sex and pleasure, and she notably used to bathe in water filled with saffron to increase sensitivity and lead to greater pleasure.”
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