DID YOU KNOW that food and passion are two of the strongest and most closely linked human desires?

According to nutrition professor at Columbia University's School of Public Health, both activate pleasure receptors in the brain.

While the notion of aphrodisiacs is unfounded, certain foods can help kindle the fire...

For example, a spicy meal can spice up your romance. Here's how: sauces, sides and dressings made from chili peppers (such as hot sauce or salsa) contain the chemical capsaicin, whose effects mirror the signs of arousal (sweating, tingles, rapid heart rate and flushed cheeks)--and perhaps, your date may credit you with evoking those spine-tingling feelings.

Linger over cappuccino and dessert...According to a study conducted by Southwestern University; coffee drinkers have higher libidos than those who don't. And, of course, sharing a decadent chocolate dessert with your date is incredibly sensual. Studies reveal that chocolate contains a compound that triggers certain endorphins that increase the feelings of attraction between two people.