Ancient lore holds that certain foods can improve your love life. Modern science isn’t convinced, but admits that certain foods may improve circulation or just make you feel better and that this may affect your libido.

So, what are these “love” foods? And are there foods that should be avoided when we’re planning a romantic evening?

This list of foods to include in your romantic meal include anise, basil, mustard greens, arugula, asparagus, almonds, avocado, bananas, chocolate, carrots, coffee, cilantro, figs, garlic, ginger, honey, licorice, mustard, nutmeg, pine nuts, pineapple, raspberries, strawberries, vanilla and wine. Obviously, if the love of your life has an aversion to bananas, that wouldn’t be your food of choice. And too many glasses of wine can ruin your evening. If you’re going to go heavy on the garlic, you might want to allow for time to practice some oral hygiene. But plan a meal that includes some of these foods and see what happens. If nothing else, you’ll have a delicious, romantic meal, and special time together is the best aphrodisiac.

Are there foods that you should avoid? The ancients had a list of these, as well. To avoid extinguishing the flame you’ve kindled, stay away from dill, lentil, lettuce and watercress.