Figs a fertility friendly fruit

Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)

Fancy a Fig, Pomegranate and Halloumi salad in the sunshine?

Figs are one of the oldest fruits known to humans. They originated in Asia minor and then spread across the Mediterranean with the Greeks and Romans. Nutritionally they are loaded with minerals such as zinc, manganese, calcium, magnesium and vitamin B6 – all of which play an important role in supporting reproductive health. Figs also contain a lot of iron, which are important for healthy eggs and ovulation.

Fully ripened figs as well as dried figs are packed with antioxidants.  Figs contain a good amount of fibre so are helpful in weight loss and weight management programs and they are great for a snack too as they help people to feel full. Being of a healthy weight is important when it comes to fertility for numerous reasons (we will explore this area in more depth in a further article). In relation to male fertility, figs have been shown to increase the motility and number of sperm.

Fresh Fig, Pomegranate and Halloumi salad

• 250 g halloumi, thinly sliced
• 60 ml olive oil
• 1 handful of fresh mint leaves
• 100 g rocket leaves
• 8 fresh figs, halved
• 1 pomegranate, seeds and juice removed
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp of extra olive oil

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over high heat. Cook the halloumi for 2-3 minutes each side or until crispy.

Place the halloumi, mint, rocket, figs, pomegranate seeds and juice in a bowl, drizzle with vinegar and extra oil combine. Enjoy!

Why not also enjoy some fresh figs:

• In a salad
• At breakfast with porridge or with natural yoghurt and honey
• As a dessert poached, with yoghurt, crème fraiche or ice cream.