Dear Lynn:

I want to make a romantic dinner for my husband. Is it true that certain foods are aphrodisiacs? If so, which ones are the best for setting the mood?

You're in luck! Certain foods definitely aid in creating a romantic atmosphere. Here are some of the more common and not-so-common aphrodisiacs:

• Caviar appears to have qualities that nourish and enhance nerve cells, which can heighten our romantic feelings. Caviar's powers are reinforced with the addition of vodka, so indulge both passions at the same time and watch out for fireworks.
• Truffles contain a chemical that is similar to the male pig sex hormone. Now you know why they use sows to search out truffles: the scent drives the girls wild. The chemical in truffles is also similar to a human male sex hormone, which gives truffles their romantic reputation. It doesn't hurt that truffles are also expensive and hard to find.
• Chocolate contains mild central nervous system stimulants that help heighten mood. According to legend, Montezuma drank 50 cups of chocolate every day to boost his virility before visiting his harem of 600 women. Unless you have your own personal harem, I wouldn't advise that amount of chocolate; a small amount of really good chocolate should set the mood just as easily.

Uncommon Food Aphrodisiacs

If you and your loved one are ready for something on the wild side, try these ancient aphrodisiacs:

• Asparagus: According to a 17-century herbalist, asparagus "stirs up lust in man and woman."
• Cappuccino: Coffee drinkers reportedly are more sexually active than non-coffee drinkers.
• Radishes: It worked for the ancient Egyptians.
• Garlic: The heat in garlic supposedly fires the flames of passion.

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