You’ve heard about antioxidant rich foods, but not 100% sure what they are and how they can help with fertility, or support a healthy pregnancy?
Let’s get science-y for a moment.
Free radicals are electrically charged molecules that pass through cell membranes and can wreak havoc on genetic material, proteins and enzymes.
Oxidative stress is caused by free radicals and is capable of causing cells to lose their structure, function and can eventually kill the cell(s).
Our bodies are overwhelmed with oxidative stress from elements such as: pollution, infection, smoking, drinking, poor diet, just to name a few of the common ones.
How can you tell if you have free radical damage?
It may present itself as pain from joint degeneration, aches from malfunctioning muscles or accelerated aging.
Enter Antioxidants.
This is your first line of defence and balances out the damage done by free radicals.
The most familiar form of dietary antioxidants are Vitamin C, E and beta-carotene.
As well as other dietary antioxidant substances such as phytonutrients, which function above and beyond traditional vitamins.
Other naturally occurring antioxidant activity comes from enzymes and trace minerals selenium, Copper, iron, zinc and manganese.
So how do you keep the balance in your body?
Consume a well balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, protein and whole grains. And look to some high quality antioxidant supplements if you need extra support (make sure to check with your health professional if you’re pregnant).
Some antioxidant rich foods include:
*Try to get local and or Organic if possible
+Dark chocolate (as dark as you can get, I like 80%)
+Pecans
+Blueberries*
+Strawberries*
+Artichokes
+Goji berries
+Rasberries*
+Kale / Spinach*
+Papaya
+Red Cabbage*
+Beets*
Think bright and colourful fruit and veg!
Here’s a smoothie that is high in antioxidants:
- Spinach
- Payaya
- Berries
- Banana
- Coconut water
- Ginger
- Lime juice
Blend and enjoy!
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