4th of July celebrations and cookouts go hand and hand. Unfortunately, cookouts and not-so-healthy foods go hand and hand as well. Despite social distancing precautions, most of us are still planning on enjoying the holiday, even if it is with a smaller and more socially distant crowd than what we prefer.
If you are trying to conceive, your dietary choices can make a difference in your sperm health. Making certain dietary choices like eating foods that are rich in antioxidants – think fruits, veggies, and beans – while limiting alcohol and processed meats can have a profound impact on your fertility journey.
Of course, you want to enjoy your 4th of July, but you also want to support your fertility goals. To help you marry enjoyment and fertility support, here are some recipes to help you partake in your festivities in a healthier way.
Appetizers
Meatballs are often a popular appetizer, but they are usually made with red meat – a food that is not encouraged when eating for fertility. These air fryer meatballs are made with ground turkey, are lighter in fat, and taste absolutely amazing. Try the plum dipping sauce that is included in the recipe for some extra oomph.
Step aside Buffalo Wings… there’s a new player in town! These Cajun Cauliflower Bites are the perfect addition to your 4th of July spread. Choosing foods that are rich in antioxidants, like vegetables, can help support your sperm health. Instead of munching on some ho-hum raw cauliflower and dip, try these bites on for size.
Main Dish
Plant-based burger for 4th of July? Absolutely! Try these beetroot quinoa burgers instead of your classic cheeseburger and fries and you won’t even miss your old faithful.
If you simply can’t do a meatless 4th of July, a mushroom turkey burger is a perfect swap for a juicy and satisfying 4th of July burger. Sneaking mushrooms into the burger gives your dish a boost of antioxidants which are a sperm health powerhouse.
Sides
This Red, White & Blue Beet Slaw is a festive and colorful dish that’s perfect for a 4th of July cookout or summer party. It’s vegetarian, gluten free, and paleo, and most importantly, delish!
If you’re looking for a healthier baked beans recipe that doesn’t involve an overnight soak, or hours in the oven, these quicker lentil baked beans are for you.
Lentils are an amazing source of plant-based proteins that are loaded with antioxidants. Choose these instead of the canned version of baked beans, which could contain BPA, and enjoy.
Drink
Looking for that cocktail with some zest to it that won’t weigh you down? This Spicy Skinny Margarita Recipe comes in at under 100 calories and the perfect refreshing treat to enjoy on a hot summer day. Limiting sugar in this margarita can help support weight goals while not compromising on taste.
Strawberry Basil Kombucha Cocktail
Using kombucha in this cocktail limits added sugars while not compromising on taste. Kombucha is an antioxidant-rich drink that is versatile and is a perfect cocktail ingredient for 4th of July festivities.
Dessert
This brownie batter dip really does taste like a brownie, and is perfect for dunking fresh fruit. No added sugar, and high in protein and fiber, this dip will have you hooked immediately!
These refreshing red white and blue popsicles are the perfect easy treat to cool down for the 4th of July or any hot summer BBQ.
Enjoying Your Holiday While TTC
You shouldn’t have to choose between enjoying your holiday and supporting your fertility. Certain things a man can do, like making right food choices, staying active, and learning about his sperm healthy by using the YO Home Sperm Test, can help him on his fertility journey in a simple approach.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and enjoy your 4th of July festivities in a fertility-friendly way.
