Diet for IVF Treatment: Foods to Eat and Avoid for Success

Diet is a crucial part of IVF treatment as it optimises the success rates of IVF. A healthy diet influences overall health status, hormonal profile and reproductive health. IVF treatment requires healthy food on priority so as to improve fertility and also support a healthy pregnancy.

In this article, we will discuss the foods to eat and avoid during IVF treatment. Eating the right food provides the nutrients women need the most during the IVF cycle and balances vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats, thereby optimising the body's fertility potential.

However, eating the wrong diet increases the risk during IVF treatment as it compromised the chances of successful implantation.

Let's explore in more detail the foods to include and avoid during IVF treatment.

What does research say about diet and IVF treatment?

•  Consuming cereals, vegetables and fruits positively influences embryo quality in women undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment.

• Red meat consumption negatively impacts implantation and clinical pregnancy rates.

• Males should consume increased fruit and vegetable consumption as it increases fertilization rates.

• Periconceptional maternal adherence to a ‘high fish and olive oil, low meat’ dietary pattern positively influences embryonic growth.

• Low antioxidant status is the unexplained cause of fertility.

• MedDiet increases embryo survival and is highly beneficial for those undergoing IVF treatment.

• MedDiet is rich in antioxidants.

• Taking antioxidants 3 months before IVF cycles improves oocyte quality.

Dietary Changes Required in IVF

The following are the important dietary considerations in increasing IVF success rates.

• Consumption of folic acid, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.

• Eat cucumber, broccoli, and carrots.

• Prefer olive oil.

• Diet to be consumed after embryo transfer: This includes avocados, green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits

• Food to avoid after embryo transfer includes junk food, processed food, alcohol, soda

•  Drink water frequently and keep the body hydrated.

•  Increased consumption of whole grains, legumes, beans, and dried fruits.

• Fruits to be included are pomegranates, berries, citrus fruits

• Foods to be avoided are Processed meats, alcohol, high sugar levels, raw fish or meat, and cheese.

What are the healthy lifestyle tips in addition to diet tips for women undergoing IVF treatment?

• Know the right food to eat.

• Know the wrong food to avoid.

• Consult a dietician and get your diet chart planned.

•  Drink water frequently.

•  Never skip meals

•  Avoid smoking

• Limit coffee

• Avoid white flour

Adopting a healthy and balanced diet during IVF treatment significantly impacts fertility and increases the success rates of IVF treatment. By incorporating nutrient-rich foods and avoiding potentially harmful substances, individuals can create an optimal environment for reproductive health.

Diet alone cannot guarantee IVF success. You need an expert IVF specialist to guide you further with IVF treatment.

An expert doctor, your cooperation, lifestyle modification and healthy eating can enhance the outcomes of the IVF treatment. It's equally important to approach the IVF journey holistically, taking into account physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. With a well-rounded approach and professional guidance, individuals can enhance their overall well-being and improve their prospects for a successful IVF outcome.

If you are looking for IVF treatment and need an expert opinion, contact us. We will connect to our expert doctor who will help you make the right treatment decision. You also have the option of second opinion services. For more details, contact us.