Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Don’t waste the inside of the pumpkins, why not use them to help balance out your carbohydrates throughout the day by making some of these tasty energy bites?
Nutritionally, pumpkin is great as it is a great source of beta carotene, full of antioxidants (vitamins A, C and E) as well as containing plenty of B vitamins – all of which are vital to fertility and the production of healthy sperm and eggs. Another bonus is that pumpkin flesh is low in carbs and also calories so great for balancing those sugar levels between meals.
Pumpkin also has a great moist texture which is useful when moulding the energy bites. The cinnamon in these gives a little kick to the flavor and is good for you too as it contains anti – inflammatory properties and is an excellent source of antioxidants too. So, don’t reach for the biscuits make some of these healthy little pumpkin bites this year for Halloween.
Dark chocolate can help boost male fertility as it is a rich source of the amino acid L-arginine which studies show can improve sperm count and motility. This amino acid can also help female fertility too as it increases the flow of blood to the ovaries and uterus. Try to buy organic dark chocolate containing 70% cocoa or above.
Ingredients
90g of oats (gluten free)
30g chopped walnuts
70g almond or peanut butter
90g pumpkin puree
2 Tbsp local runny honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
40g (70% and above) dark chocolate chips
How to make:
In a food processor, place half of the oats, the chopped walnuts, nut butter, pumpkin puree, honey and cinnamon. Pulse two or three times, until well combined.
Transfer the dough into a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining oats, the mini chocolate chips, and stir well.
Using your hands, shape and roll the dough into balls.
Place onto a plate and chill in fridge for at least one hour. These energy bites can be stored in the fridge in a airtight container for up to a week.
The post Spicy Pumpkin and Dark Chocolate Chip Energy Bites appeared first on IVF Babble.
IVF BabbleRead More
