The Science of Aphrodisiacs?
October 2, 2008
“The Joy of Sex,” the iconic 1970s book that became the bedroom (and elsewhere) bible for a generation, has been re-released in an updated version. (AFP/Getty Images)
They’ve been touted to increase sex drive, boost arousal and put men and women in the “mood” for hundreds of years. But the skeptical consider aphrodisiacs – foods, drinks, and now cleverly marketed extracts and supplements – to be more mental than physical. A brief look at some of the more notorious of these purported libido enhancers reveals both flimsy claims and some sound science:
1. WATERMELON
A study suggesting that watermelon may have Viagra-like effects on the body made headlines in July. But the findings don’t exactly mean that eating watermelon can boost libido or treat erectile dysfunction. Watermelon, scientists found, contains large amounts of the plant nutrient citrulline, which is known to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and immune systems. The chemical can relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, in much the way Viagra’s active ingredient does. But, the researchers say, it isn’t as organ-specific as Viagra. Plus, most of the chemical is in the fruit’s inedible rind, anyway.
2. OYSTERS
Since ancient times, people have considered these mollusks to be an especially potent aphrodisiac. But this reputation may have arisen simply because an oyster’s shape resembles the female genitalia. There’s no scientific evidence that the slippery mollusks boost libido or sexual performance. However, oysters have a high zinc content, which is essential to the production of testosterone, the male sex hormone.
3. HOT PEPPERS
A group of alleged aphrodisiacs – cayenne and other chile peppers – is sometimes sold in the form of an extract, but its effect on the body may be more discomfort-inducing than arousing. The fiery fruits contain varying levels of a chemical irritant called capsaicin, which, when ingested, causes an increase in heart rate and breathing, sweating and blood flow – similar to the body’s response to sexual arousal.
4. CHOCOLATE
Perhaps the most famous – and most studied – of the alleged aphrodisiacs is chocolate. A 2006 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that women who habitually ate chocolate on a daily basis reported higher sexual function scores than those who did not. Researchers believe this finding is a misleading artifact of chocolate eaters’ tendency to be younger – and have naturally higher libidos – than people who avoid the treat. Interestingly, there was no difference between the groups in sexual arousal or satisfaction. Still, it’s plausible that chocolate contains a little love mojo: The neurotransmitters serotonin and anandamide both contribute to feelings of happiness and euphoria during sex. And both are found in chocolate.
5. Lingerie
Does this need any explanation?
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Rock The Vote: People’s Choice Event!
October 1, 2008.JPG "No Tie Networking Logo")
Hosted by No Tie Networking (I love their events)
This is going to rock, you HAVE to be there:
People’s Choice: Rock the Vote
When: October 23, 2008 @ 6:30-8:30 pm
Where: Bua 122-126 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009-5818
- Cross Street: Between 1st Avenue and Avenue A
Directions: 6 at Astor Pl; N, R, W at 8th St (East Village)
Happy Hour: $3 Domestic Beer, $4 Import Beer, $5 Well Drinks, $5 Cocktails
- Why: Come have a great time and mingle with other outgoing, professionals for business and friendship! Share your political concerns beyond political association and why you will be rocking your vote.
Cost: Free Admission, you just pay for your drinks.
Click Here for more information about this event or future No Tie Networking Events
Detoxing your Denim Addiction
September 30, 2008I am not saying there is anything wrong with denim. I love jeans, denim skirts, and the occasional denim jacket. However, enough is enough. When jeans are being worn to red carpet events we know that it’s time to re-asses our wardrobes, and our denim addictions.
When did dressing up lose it’s appeal? Dresses, skirts, slacks… are all essential for a sophisticated wardrobe. Never underestimate the statement that is made when you put up your jeans and pull out a nice pair of black pants. A small effort, that gives your outfit a clean, sophisticated look.
Here are some ideas to replace your jeans:
Work:
A great looking maxi-dress with a shrug can give your work regulars a feminine spin:
Never underestimate the power of classic tweed with a great button front shirt:
Evening:
A fun print, with heels and a cute bag and you have an outfit for any evening event:
Always in style: the Little Black Outfit:
Weekend:
A pair of slacks can upgrade a graphic tee and a pair of sneakers:
Who says skirts are just for weekdays:
What are your denim detox tips?
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SARAH PALIN Swimsuit Competition
September 29, 2008Sarah Palin competing in the swimsuit competition for Miss Alaska Pageant 1984
How To Walk in Heels
September 24, 2008
I have seen many a girl attempt to walk in heels… and look like an unbalanced tight-rope walker. Staggering left, then right, butt out, chest forward, and ankles wobbling. It does not give the desired effect- Sexy it is not! When one of these girls comes wobbling down the street you hear other women sighing (I can’t believe she things she can walk in those) gay men yelling “Oh, honey I could give you lessons,” and others look on and laugh.
This is not what you want when you buy those adorable 3 1/4″ heels… what you really want is to be that gorgeous woman, with legs up to there, sashaying down the street, catching every eye that walks by. A picture of grace and sexiness… but that won’t happen if you don’t know how to walk in those heels!
Here is a simple 6 step process for learning how to conquer those Stilettos:
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Online Shopping Without Breaking The Bank
September 19, 2008
We all know about ebay and etsy as great discount buys, but where else can you shop online and save on great clothes? These are my favorite buys:
Discount liquidator featuring items from: metrostyle, chadwick’s and Brylane home. I’ve purchased tons of great items here, most recently, a cute baby blue halter for $1.99.
The plus size sister to CCO. Here you can find products from Jessica London, Women Within, Romans and Brylane Home. Recently they just introduced an entire section for La Redoute final clearance items (their US brand is going out of business). I found a great pair of leather boots on this site for $29.99, and a Blazer for $7.99!
I think Kohls is often underestimated as the great discounter that they are! If you do a little bit of searching you can find some really great buys! I recently got 2 graphic polos for $6 each!
What are some of your favorite discount sites?
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Janet’s Latest Wardrobe Malfunctions
September 19, 2008I don’t really know what to say about these horrendous costume choices except… fire your stylist… NOW! Her look now goes from an alien-pajama-disco-party look to a “Mad Max Meets the Pirates” episode. The bad mohawk, organ grinder hat, and crazy sailor outfit is just…. bad bad bad! Thoughts?
Thoughts??
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Where to Shop in NYC… and Still Keep Your Budget!
September 16, 2008
When shopping in NY it is important to keep an open mind. Sometimes the best finds are in the seedy little tourist shop, or a street vendor. Sometimes you have to dig to find a great bargain. Here are some of my secret bargain shops on 34th street… A good NYer secret… if you don’t want anyone to know where you bought it, keep a bag from another store in your purse. When you leave the store, transfer your purchases. No one will know that adorable little dress came from the sample sale on the corner of 35th and 8th, or that great pair of pants came from Conway! Oh, and if anyone wants to know where you got your adorable little fill-in-the-blank, keep your secret by saying it was a gift.
Conway
A New York staple, but no one ever admits it! This is a great place to find cute dresses for $9 or great accessories. This is my favorite stop for cute t-shirts and tanks! I stock up on their $4.99 tanks and $3.99 camisoles!
Strawberry
Adorable and trendy are fantastic! Adorable, trendy, and affordable – perfect! Two floors overflowing with clothes, these are just some of the great finds there: Opaque tights: $4.99-$12, Print Chiffon Ruffled Tank: $19.99, Cute Striped Cardigan: $16.99, and Plaid Tunic: $16.99.
Cinderella
An accessories mega-store located on 8th ave. With some digging you can find the cutest hats, and costume jewelry. Right now they are offering a two-for-$10 hat sale.
Again, don’t be afraid to peruse the places you normally wouldn’t step foot it- I have firmly decided that I don’t want to pay standard retail price for any of my clothing choices anymore. Look for sales, offers, street vendors, bargain shops, and sample sales. NY is known for great shopping – NYers know where to go for a great bargain. Tune in all week to see great places to bargain shop… both on location and on the web!
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