By Sue Bedford
Why not reset and boost this weekend with this gorgeous watermelon, feta, red onion and watercress salad packed full of vitamins and minerals
Watermelon has a high lycopene content (a naturally occurring carotenoid which has shown in studies to have beneficial effects in relation to male fertility) and contains many antioxidants and vitamins essential to fertility. Watermelons are great for hydration, healthy skin, reducing inflammation in the body- a few more reasons to enjoy it!
Great for men and women!
Red onion contains a compound that can help to increase the body’s level of the antioxidant Glutathione – in men this can help improve sperm quality and in women can help boost egg quality.
And don’t forget the watercress!
It is packed with essential nutrients including the vitamins A, C, E and K and antioxidants. Importantly for conception, it is a rich source of the B vitamin Folate, which is crucial for DNA duplication in the egg and sperm.
Watermelon, feta, red onion and watercress salad
Ingredients
Serves: 6
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 600g seeded, cubed watermelon
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- 75g pitted Black olives (optional)
- handful chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 120g Fresh watercress
To make
Place the onion slices in a small bowl with the lime juice. Leave to stand for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, feta cheese, olives and onions with the lime juice and mint. Drizzle olive oil over it all and toss to blend. Place the watercress onto plates and then spoon the salad over the top. Enjoy!
References
Agarwal, A et al (2015). A unique view on male infertility around the globe. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology. Volume 13, Issue 37.
Gupta NP, Kumar R. Lycopene therapy in idiopathic male infertility—a preliminary report. International Urology and Nephrology. 2002;34(3):369–372.