Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Fresh Cranberry, Cinnamon and Pomegranate sauce, perfect for this festive season.
Cranberries are full of antioxidants including vitamin C (lots of!) and E, and are a great source of manganese, vitamin K and an array of important phytonutrients. In relation to fertility, vitamin C helps to protect egg cells from the oxidative stress caused by free radicals – helping to slow down cell ageing. Vitamin C is one of the most abundant antioxidants in sperm, and it contributes to the maintenance of healthy sperm by protecting the sperm’s DNA from free radical damage. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps protect the sperm’s cell membrane from damage. Studies have indicated that vitamin E improves sperm motility (movement). Vitamin C functions to regenerate vitamin E; thus, these vitamins may work together to improve sperm function. Vitamin C has been shown to increase sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Did you know? The antioxidant level in cranberries is one of the highest found in most fruit and vegetables including apples, raspberries, strawberries, broccoli, cherries and red grapes.
Cinnamon is a warming spice which helps to stabilise glucose and triglyceride levels in the blood – which are important in relation to fertility. It acts as a fantastic antiseptic and a powerful antioxidant which also helps to reduce inflammation in the body.
Pomegranates can also hold their own when it comes to being packed with fertility-friendly nutrients including vitamin C, vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid), folate and they are also a good source of vitamin A, vitamin E and Fibre.
The anti-inflammatory properties that pomegranates possess may be helpful in easing some of the symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as Endometriosis. They are also thought to support fertility by helping balance hormones and increasing blood flow to the uterus. Pomegranate is rich in zinc as compared to other fruits. Zinc has been shown to increase sperm count and sperm quality – both are important for successful conception. Folate is also key preconceptionally in helping to prevent neural tube defects in the developing foetus once pregnant.
Cranberry, Cinnamon and Pomegranate Sauce
Ingredients
1 pomegranate – seeds only
10 oz cranberries
1 cinnamon stick
Pinch of ground cloves
½ pint of orange juice
2 tbsp sugar (adjust to your taste)
Zest of 1 orange
Place the sugar, orange juice and zest, cranberries, ground cloves, and cinnamon stick together in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and cool. Stir the pomegranate seeds into the cranberry mixture, and place into the fridge overnight. Remove the cinnamon sticks before serving. Make extra portions to freeze. Enjoy!
Want to read more?
Blumberg et al (2013) Cranberries and Their Bioactive Constituents in Human Health. Adv Nutr vol. 4: 618-632.
Côté J, Caillet S, Doyon G et al (2010). Bioactive compounds in cranberries and their biological properties. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr.;50(7):666-79.
