Oysters

Oysters are often cited as an aphrodisiac. According to the Telegraph of London a team of American and Italian researchers who analysed bivalve molluscs (the group of shellfish that oysters belong to) the research found found that these molluscs were rich in rare amino acids that trigger increased levels of sex hormones.

If there is such an effect, it may be due to the soft, moist texture and appearance of the oyster (which could have a mental effect); but it is more likely due to their high zinc content, which is known to increase testosterone levels in men.

In the early nineteenth century, oysters were very cheap and were mainly eaten by the working classes. Oysters were quite popular in New York City during the time when all of the babies of the "baby boomer" generation were being concieved. Coincidence? Perhaps... but people have claimed oysters as one of the best food-based natural aphrodisiacs for centuries.

Usual dishes: There are many ways to prepare this fine natural aphrodisiac food, including Roasted Oysters, baked oysters, oysters on the half shel, cajun oysters, fried oysters, oyster thomas, grilled oysters and a whole variety of oyster soups and cocktail / dipping sauces.

Dangers: Oysters, when eaten raw, are susceptable to holding bacteria, which can cause someone eating them to get violently sick. This happends less often when the oysterns are fresh, and very rarely when you pick them straight out of the sea.