Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
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 overall health, are great for anti-ageing of cells and help support the reproductive and immune system too.
Natural live yoghurt is great for the gut as it contains friendly probiotic bacteria (such as lactobacillus)- all health starts in the gut. It is also a good source of protein, calcium and provides selenium too
Bananas- easy to transport and eat on the go and great for mood. Bananas provide potassium, vitamins A, C, and B6, fibre, tryptophan, potassium, phosphorous, iron, protein, and carbohydrates. Furthermore, the fructose and fibre provide an immediate energy boost.
Spinach is an amazing source of iron, folate, vitamin C and beta -carotene- all important nutrients for health and fertility.
Chia seeds are a good source of an Omega 3 fatty acid (Alpha linolenic acid – ALA for short), vitamin D, E and B along with fibre, iron, antioxidants, magnesium, calcium, selenium, manganese and potassium. These fertility supporting seeds help provide energy, fight inflammation, reduce sugar cravings and regulate blood sugar levels, also, potentially benefitting those with PCOS.
Berries are a fantastic source of antioxidants as-well as vitamins, minerals and fibre to help ‘zap’ those free radicals that can lead to oxidative stress in cells and thus helping prevent damage to the DNA, which has an anti-ageing effect on cells. They also help with cognitive function, keeping the brain healthy and helping lower inflammation in the body.
In the Pink velvet smoothie (makes 2)
2 medium ripe bananas
A few handfuls / 200g of berries such as blueberries, cherries, and raspberries (if frozen, allow to thaw first: cold is not something to be introduced when trying to conceive)
200g kefir or organic live yoghurt
A handful of spinach or other greens
A spoonful of chia
1 tsp honey
Add to blender and whizz until smooth and creamy. Enjoy for breakfast or a snack.
