Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Love a Blackberry or two? Why not make yourself a fertility-friendly blackberry smoothie and start your day in a great way? Blackberries are in season and bursting full of goodness. Blackberries possess one of the highest contents of antioxidant phytonutrients in food, nearly as high as blueberries.
In relation to fertility, Blackberries contain a good amount of folate which is important in sperm formation and also in the prevention of neural tube defects in the developing foetus. Blackberries contain a good amount of antioxidants Vitamins C and E. In studies vitamin E has been shown to help increase fertility rates during ICSI and also to help women over 35 if their fertility problems are caused by their age. Vitamin C helps to protect the sperm and eggs cells from oxidative stress and also their DNA too. It is also important in sperm health and in studies has been linked to improving sperm quality. Blackberries also contain a flavonoid called Rutin which is also important in fertility as it helps to improve blood circulation around the body, including the reproductive organs.
Blackberry smoothie (makes 2)
• 300 g of fresh or frozen blackberries
• 200g tub Natural live yoghurt
• 1 cup of milk chilled – your choice of milk
Combine the blackberries, yoghurt and milk in a blender and process until smooth.
Why not make into a smoothie bowl and sprinkle with blueberries, strawberries and a sprinkle of nuts and seeds for that extra nutrient boost? Enjoy!
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