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What to include in your diet pre and post IVF
Diet is an essential part of life, particularly for those who are trying to conceive or about to undergo fertility treatment such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment. Staying hydrated and eating a healthy and nutrient-rich diet is crucial for reproductive health and overall wellbeing. So, incorporating the right foods during treatment is important. It may also increase the chances of getting pregnant after an embryo transfer.
There’s no need to make drastic changes, but small changes can significantly impact your fertility journey.
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What to eat during IVF
Maintaining a healthy, balanced and nutrient-rich diet along with positive lifestyle changes can help support fertility health during IVF. However, it is essential to be aware of what specialists recommend you should eat and what should be consumed in moderation, as it can impact our body and the functioning of our organs.
Certain fertility boosting nutrients are essential for reproductive health and create the optimal uterine environment for implantation. Key nutrients include folic acid, protein, iron, vitamin C and D. So, citrus fruits like berries, vegetables, oats, nuts and whole grains can positively impact your fertility journey. Additionally, consuming fish, poultry, eggs and healthy fats like olive oil and avocado can also support embryo development.
What should I avoid eating during IVF?
It’s easy to crave sugary treats during IVF, but it’s important to reduce your intake of food high in sugar. Indulging occasionally is okay, however, having too much may impact egg and sperm quality, embryo implantation, blood sugar levels and has been linked to lower pregnancy rates.
Additionally, it’s best to avoid processed foods, raw meat, unpasteurised dairy products, and fried foods. These can disrupt the IVF process and lower the chances of a successful pregnancy, due to the harmful bacteria these foods may contain.
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Foods to eat after an embryo transfer
It’s common to feel overwhelmed and nervous after a transfer, but some foods can aid the process, reduce anxiety and enhance your chances of success. The secret is to maintain a healthy diet and eat as if you’re pregnant. Here are some foods to incorporate into your diet:
Fibre – Supports digestive health and can potentially improve blood flow to the uterus. You can obtain a good source of fibre from whole grains such as brown rice, oats and buckwheat, as well as from various fruits, vegetables and legumes, such as lentils and chickpeas.
Protein – Essential for egg development and embryo growth. Good sources of protein include meat, eggs, nuts and seeds.
Folic acid – Important for the development of the baby’s brain and spine. You can find folic acid in eggs, legumes and leafy greens such as broccoli and spinach.
Calming foods – Whole grains, leafy greens, fish, asparagus, can all help reduce anxiety. Additionally, a cup of chamomile or herbal tea may help to calm your nerves.
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Does the Mediterranean diet improve IVF success?
The Mediterranean diet is generally consumed in Greece, Italy and Spain and can potentially boost fertility and improve IVF success rates. The diet is rich in healthy fats, antioxidants and fibre. It includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, olive oil, nuts, seeds, legumes and fish. Adding extra virgin olive oil into your cooking or chickpeas to a pulse-based pasta can be beneficial.
Consuming these foods can enhance sperm and egg quality, embryo growth, reduce inflammation and create the optimal environment for conception and pregnancy. However, the Mediterranean diet is only one piece of the puzzle. Factors such as age, medical conditions and lifestyle choices can also impact IVF outcomes.
Eating on the go during IVF
We understand that life can get busy and for some eating on the go has become the norm. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy healthy and nutritious meals while you’re out.
There are quick and easy meals that you can prepare in advance. For example, consider carrot sticks with hummus, a trail mix of nuts and seeds or Greek yogurt with berries. It’s also a good idea to purchase small snack boxes, which are perfect for commuting, eating in the car or while you are taking a walk.
Additionally, water should be your go-to beverage, but you can opt for herbal teas and fresh fruit juices. It may be best to avoid caffeine, sugary drinks and alcohol as these can interfere with the embryo transfer process.
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Budget-friendly IVF diet meals
Cost plays a significant role in our lives and we understand that accessing fresh, quality foods can be expensive. However, there are ways to maintain your health during IVF, without breaking the bank.
Meals with frozen vegetables – While some may believe that frozen vegetables lack quality, freezing actually preserves their nutrition for a longer time. Plus, they are quick and easy to prepare. Just boil or steam them and add to pasta, stir-fries, risottos or have them with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Add legumes – Incorporating legumes such as beans and lentils into your meals can help with ovarian stimulation. Simply add some beans into egg dishes such as omelettes or mix pre-cooked lentils into a mixed salad.
Soup dishes – Soups are affordable, quick and easy to cook. You can add in beans, vegetables, chicken and all the nutrients your body needs. Remember the more colourful the ingredients the better!
Greek yogurt – Buying Greek yoghurt is a cost-effective way of supporting your fertility. You can add it with oats and berries, or even make a creamy mint sauce and enjoy with cucumber and carrot sticks.
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