This Valentine’s weekend why not explore a few so-called libido-boosters? While the Institute of Food Research quite rightly says, “There is a lot of folklore and pseudo- science around aphrodisiac foods and supplements and not a lot of real scientific evidence” that’s no reason not to have some fun.

First we need look no further than the traditional oyster, documented as an aphrodisiac by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, with the satirist Juvenal describing women’s wanton ways after drinking wine and eating giant oysters. Although they’re rich in zinc, necessary for testosterone production,

most agree that it’s their look (some think they resemble the female genitals) and appealing texture (what experts call “mouth feel”) more than any zinc boost that gets us between the sheets.

But a deficiency of zinc can lead to impotence and reduced sperm count. Other sources of the trace element include pumpkin seeds, crumbly cheese, meat, eggs and figs.

Like oysters, an open fresh fig is also thought to resemble the female sex organs. The act of a man breaking open a fig and eating it in front of his lover is apparently a turn-on for some; and Italians recommend fresh Black Mission figs in a bowl of cool water, eaten with your fingers.

Another of life’s great sensual moments is Green & Black’s organic chocolate melting in your mouth. Eating chocolate has been found to have a positive impact on a woman’s sexuality — as if we needed an excuse! Scientists from San Raffaele Hospital, in Milan, found that women with a daily intake of chocolate indicated a higher level of sexual desire than those

who didn’t. Dr Andrea Salonia, who led the research, said that women with a low libido could even become more amorous after eating chocolate, particularly beneficial for those who shun sex because of PMT.

The reason may be chocolate’s phenylethylamine content, which causes levels of the body’s endorphin, or happy hormone, levels to rise, giving a feeling similar to falling in love.

Chocolate also has the perfect “mouth feel” because of its texture and melting point. And please note, that’s real chocolate, the kind containing cocoa beans.

Buy something with a cocoa bean content of 34 per cent or more for mood-enhancing effects.

For non-chocolate-eaters, carrots are believed to be a stimulant to the male, though perhaps this has more to do with their phallic shape than any proven science. They are, however, the richest sourceb of beta-carotene, needed for the development of healthy sperm.

A cup of good espresso coffee — which contains caffeine but not too much — can help to stimulate the mind enough to stay awake and partake in preparations for an all-nighter. But be careful not to drink too much filter or instant coffee as it will overstimulate and may make you feel low.

Vitamin E has been referred to as the “sex vitamin” because it helps to maintain a healthy blood flow to the penis and female genitals. There is, however, no convincing evidence for taking a vitamin E supplement to boost libido; you’re much better off ensuring that your diet includes plenty of foods rich in vitamin E, such as whole-wheat products, nuts, seeds and hemp oil.

Stephen Sinatra, the medical director of Eastern Connecticut Health Network, in the US, which specialises in health and nutrition, is a huge nut-fan, referring to peanuts as “dietary Viagra”. Because they’re rich in L-arginine, a semi-essential amino acid that is supposedly involved in vasodilation — expansion of the blood vessels — he wants us to eat two cups (400g) of unsalted peanuts every evening.

This seems excessive but what better reason to serve a few nuts with a glass of bubbly?

Jane Clarke answers your nutritional questions in T2 on Tuesdays. Send e-mails to jane.clarke@thetimes.co.uk; www.janeclarke.com

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