By nutritionist Sue Bedford
Poached egg with asparagus (sprinkled with parmesan shavings)
Start your day off in a nutritious way and help to balance your blood sugar levels at the same time.
Keeping blood sugar under control is essential for optimising the chances of pregnancy through fertility treatment (or naturally) as fluctuating blood sugar levels have a knock on negative effect on many hormones associated with fertility such as insulin and progesterone. This then leads to imbalances. For example, in the case of Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Aim to eat some good quality protein with carbohydrate at each meal as this combination helps to reduce the ‘spiking’ of blood sugar levels.
Eggs are packed full of vital vitamins and minerals. Asparagus is in season in the UK and boasts an impressive nutrient profile – it is also low in calories too. Asparagus is particularly high in folate (Vitamin B9) which is important in the prevention of neural tube defects – vital prior to conception and onwards.
Per person:
2 medium eggs
5 British Asparagus spears
Parmesan shavings (optional)
Pepper to season (optional)
Very easy to make:
Poach the eggs in a little boiling water (around two minutes for medium eggs). Remove and place onto a plate. Meanwhile boil or steam the asparagus for a couple of minutes, drain and place around the eggs. Season with pepper and sprinkle over some parmesan shavings if you wish and enjoy.
This also makes a great lunch and we’d love to see your efforts. Upload them to our Facebook or Instagram page, @ivfbabble