This week’s nutrition for fertility recipe is a wonderful bowl of Watermelon Gazpacho which can be enjoyed outside in the sun while soaking up some vitamin D. In Chinese medicine, watermelon is not only known to nourish the fluids of the body, but also has a calming effect on the spirit, which helps to ease frustration, restlessness and worry.
Watermelons are cool in nature and promote conception by reducing the inflammatory response within the body, thereby riding the effects of chronic, low-grade inflammation. They are also an excellent source of many antioxidants and vitamins such as C, A, B6, B1, magnesium, thiamine and potassium. Watermelons contain phytonutrients such as lycopene and citruline, substances which are essential in enhancing fertility as they help the body’s blood vessels to relax which increases sperm concentration and motility in men, and libido in both men and women. Lycopene, when taken prenatally, may also help reduce the risk of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction in pregnant women.
Cucumbers are great for digestion due to their high water content. They contain a wide variety of trace minerals and are rich in vitamin A, folate, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamins E and K. Having proper digestion when trying to conceive allows the body to focus more of its resources on conception and less on trying to achieve smooth digestion.
Tomatoes are a wonderful source of antioxidants, they are also high in lycopene and vitamin C. Lycopene as stated above is essential for successful conception. The antioxidant quality of tomatoes helps to protect your body’s cellular health by scavenging free radicals and riding you of toxins.
Onions are full of rich nutrients, including vitamins A, B & C. They are also considered a prebiotic, meaning they help to rid the body of bad bacteria and feed our gut with the good bacteria needed to maintain microflora. The anti-inflammatory properties of onions benefit fertility by helping relieve pain in those who suffer from endometriosis or PCOS. Onions are also a healthy source of folate, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron, many of the nutrients needed for healthy conception.
Bell Peppers are also high in lycopene, just like watermelons and tomatoes. This delicious veggie also contains high amounts of vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system, and absorption of iron. It has also been found to protect the sperm from oxidative damage, while reducing agglutination (clumping together).
Garlic is a wonderful herb which supports heart health and decreases stress by promoting circulation. It is also high in vitamin C which boosts the immune system and plays an intricate role in supporting a healthy conception and pregnancy. Garlic helps to regulate insulin levels and contains adequate amounts of B vitamins, which supports the menstrual cycle, PMS symptoms and women with PCOS.
Parsley is a vitamin rich leafy green herb which aids in digestion and promotes blood flow to the reproductive organs. It aids in bringing on menstruation, while promoting a regular menstrual cycle.
List of Ingredients
- 10 cups 1/4-inch-diced seedless watermelon (contains more lycopene if seedless)
- 1.5 medium organic cucumber, peeled, seeded and finely diced
- 2/3 organic yellow bell pepper, seeded and finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 3 tablespoons minced onions
- 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
Steps
- Mix ingredients in a large bowl.
- Puree about half of the mixture in a blender or food processor to desired smoothness and consistency.
- Stir in the remaining diced mixture.
- Chill for at least one hour, to allow flavors to combine, and stir well before serving.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
