Foods to get you in the mood this Valentine's Day

CLEVELAND - It's long been thought that certain foods may have the power to put you in the mood for love, but no foods have been scientifically proven to stimulate the human sex organs.

Carolyn Snyder is a registered dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic. She says although it's tough to tell if any true aphrodisiacs exist, some foods are better than others at promoting blood flow and stimulating our senses, like hot chili peppers.

"Hot chilies, hot peppers, hot nights, so if you have the chilies that is going to fire up the romantic evening by increasing the circulation, but increasing blood flow, and by exciting those nerves,” said Snyder.

Snyder says the peppers are packed with capsaicin. It's a chemical known to release endorphins and create a feeling of happiness. Chilies can also increase heart rate and stimulate nerve endings.

Fresh ginger root may also get your circulatory system flowing. It also contains libidio-lifting vitamin c, zinc, and magnesium.

Almonds provide a natural energy booster and the scent is said to excite women. And Snyder says there is a reason many of us like to give our Valentine chocolate.

"It's giving you a serotonin high. So, when you have the chocolate you begin to feel a little more amorous than maybe you would do without the chocolate,” said Snyder.

Snyder says not to overdo it on the chocolate though, an ounce or two at a time will do.