By Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Pep up your antioxidant levels along with other vital nutrients needed for health and fertility with this nutritious and delicious pink shot.
Cherries are packed full of vitamins and antioxidants including vitamin C- they rank as one of the most health protective of fruit- great for those suffering from gout too. Scientific studies have shown that anthocyanins in the cherries are found to act like anti-inflammatory agents. These anthocyanins also help increase insulin production and thus regulate blood sugar levels. Both important factors in relation to fertility.
All types of berries help to support fertility, but raspberries in particular have been linked to protecting sperm from oxidative stress. Raspberries contain a high level of Vitamin C which is a key antioxidant when it comes to male and female fertility, helping to protect sperm and egg DNA. It has also been linked to helping prevent agglutination and improve sperm quality and motility. They also contain magnesium, which is involved in the production of testosterone helping to give male fertility a further boost- great for mood too!
Fresh orange juice is fantastic nutritionally as it contains plenty of vitamin C, vitamin D, folate, potassium and thiamine (vitamin B1). It also keeps you hydrated and is great for supporting the immune system. The folate and other b vitamins contained within oranges are important for the nervous system and help reduce low mood.
Lemons are abundant in vitamin C and flavonoids, both powerful antioxidants, important in preventing free radical damage to cells- including egg and sperm cells, supporting the immune system, for skin health, increasing iron absorption from food, weight loss and the prevention of scurvy.
These ingredients combined pack a great nutritional punch that not only helps to hydrate our cells but provides anti- inflammatory and antioxidant benefits too which help support fertility, are great for anti-ageing of cells and help support the immune system too.
To make your shot (2 shots):
16 cherries (can be frozen)
16 raspberries
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh orange juice
(If you like a bit of a kick add a spoonful of chopped fresh ginger)
Combine all ingredients together in a blender.
Enjoy!
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