Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Cool down this summer with some homemade watermelon and raspberry ice lollies. Very quick and easy to make- these ice lollies are bursting with fertility friendly nutrients.
Did you know?…watermelon is a great fertility food because it is linked to helping the body produce more glutathione, which is important for egg quality. Vitamins C, A, B (some), magnesium, and potassium are also abundant in watermelon. In addition, watermelon also contains carotenoids, including lycopene and beta carotene, which are both good for fertility.
Raspberries -are fantastic as they are a low GL (Glycaemic load) fruit- helping to stabilise blood sugar levels. They have been linked to protecting sperm from oxidative stress. They also contain magnesium, which is involved in the production of testosterone. Raspberries are a good source of folate too- important in helping to prevent neural tube defects in the developing foetus.
How to make your Watermelon and Raspberry Ice Lollies (makes 8)
Blend 200g hulled raspberries with 120g deseeded watermelon and 260ml water. Once the puree is smooth, pour it into ice lolly moulds, add your sticks, and freeze until solid (at least 3 hours or overnight). Enjoy!
Interesting reading:
Kim K, Schisterman EF, Silver RM, Wilcox BD, Lynch AM, Perkins NJ, Browne RW, Lesher LL, Stanford JB, Ye A, Wactawski-Wende J, Mumford SL. Shorter Time to Pregnancy With Increasing Preconception Carotene Concentrations Among Women With 1-2 Previous Pregnancy Losses. Am J Epidemiol. 2018 Sep 1;187(9):1907-1915. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwy101. PMID: 29767694; PMCID: PMC6118073.
