Infertility affects approximately one in six individuals worldwide, amounting to around 17.5% of the adult population, according to the World Health Organization. With fertility treatments becoming increasingly prevalent, a Pew Research study revealed that over 40% of American adults have either pursued fertility treatments themselves or know someone who has.
Among the various fertility treatments available, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most common. Dr. Zev Williams, MD, PhD, director of the Columbia University Fertility Center, shared with CNN Health that IVF accounts for about two in every 100 births in the U.S., highlighting its significance as a remarkable achievement in modern medicine. However, IVF can be an arduous journey, exerting both mental and physical strain on individuals and often incurring significant costs, especially for those undergoing multiple cycles. Therefore, self-care during this time is essential, with experts recommending adequate sleep, limited alcohol consumption, and a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
To gain deeper insights into the dietary recommendations for those undergoing IVF, we spoke with Dr. Nirali Shah Jain, a reproductive endocrinologist at Reproductive Medicine Associates (RMA). She emphasized the importance of a Mediterranean-style diet, which is often advised for individuals undergoing IVF.
IVF is not a singular procedure but a series of steps conducted over several weeks. The process begins with fertility medications designed to stimulate the ovaries, prompting them to release more eggs than usual. Following this, an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (commonly referred to as the “pregnancy hormone”) is administered before the eggs are harvested at a fertility clinic.
Once at the clinic, the harvested eggs are fertilized with sperm to create embryos, which are then implanted into the uterus to initiate a pregnancy. According to The IVF Center, more than 55% of women under 35 and over 40% of those aged 35 to 37 achieve pregnancy after one IVF cycle, though these success rates decrease with age.
The UK’s Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority recommends IVF for a diverse range of individuals experiencing various fertility challenges, such as unexplained infertility, the need for surrogacy, or damage to reproductive organs.
While Dr. Jain notes that there is no “magic food” proven to enhance IVF success rates, a balanced diet rich in nutritious foods may improve outcomes. Nutrients play a vital role in reproductive health; for instance, iron, found in leafy greens, nuts, tofu, and beans, supports the functioning of the female reproductive system. Omega-3 fatty acids, present in fish and algae, are essential for regulating reproductive hormones.
Additionally, certain nutrients set the foundation for a healthy pregnancy. Folic acid, for example, helps prevent neural tube defects, while omega-3 supports fetal brain and eye development. Dr. Jain advises that anyone trying to conceive—whether naturally or through IVF—should consider prenatal vitamins to support reproductive health. “I recommend that any woman trying to conceive within the next year start taking a prenatal vitamin,” she suggests. “It takes time for your body to adjust, and you may need to try different brands to find one that suits you.”
Furthermore, she recommends CoQ10 supplements for IVF patients, as this nutrient is thought to improve egg quality due to its role in ATP synthesis and mitochondrial function, essential for cellular energy.
Dr. Jain and many fertility experts advocate for a Mediterranean-style diet, which is widely regarded as one of the healthiest dietary patterns. In contrast to the Standard American Diet, which is high in processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats, the Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole, plant-based foods. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that nine out of ten Americans struggle to consume adequate fruits and vegetables.
Mediterranean diets are rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil. “Sticking to a well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats is beneficial during IVF treatments,” says Dr. Jain. “This approach aligns with the ‘eat good, feel good’ philosophy.”
She notes that the hormones prescribed during IVF can lead to bloating, fatigue, and constipation. Thus, consuming fried and processed foods during this already challenging time can exacerbate these feelings. “While there isn’t a miracle recipe to balance hormones, eating foods that make you feel good can help you better tolerate the fluctuations in estrogen levels,” she explains.
Dr. Jain emphasizes that while many diets prioritize nutrient-dense ingredients, her favorite is the Mediterranean diet due to its high content of vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy, plant-based proteins, and minimally processed poultry and fish. Although red meat is limited, plant proteins like nuts, seeds, and legumes are encouraged.
“This diet is particularly advantageous for vegetarians, like myself, to meet daily protein requirements, which can be challenging with other dietary approaches,” she adds.
For additional resources on the Mediterranean diet and its benefits, various guides and updates are available online.
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