The aphrodisiac power of mussels

We know that mussels were among the seafoods consumed in ancient Greece. It was a time and place in which it was believed that all seafoods were the emblems of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. It was in this realm that these plump, little bivalves began their aphrodisiac history.

Applying nutritional science, we can start to see why the reputation held true. Mussels provide lean protein, essential for sustained energy for a night of passion. Also, these mollusks offer manganese, iron, selenium and zinc–all essential for a healthy libido.

If that wasn’t enough to convince you, nibble on this: In 2005 a group of Italian and American scientists found that amino acids found in bivalves, (including oysters and scallops), has the potential to raise sexual hormone levels. The study was conducted on a Mediterranean species of mussels and demonstrated that these aminos, D-aspartic acid and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid, induced sexual hormone production in rats. The implication is that we too can experience this delicious boost to sex drive. Several academic papers have been written on the findings. For more in depth information, I recommend starting with this one.