Nutrition in IVF Treatment

How Should Nutrition Be During IVF Treatment?
Throughout the IVF treatment process, it is advised to follow a diet low in carbohydrates and high in protein. The Mediterranean diet is especially recommended.
Does Obesity Affect IVF Success?
Obesity negatively impacts IVF success. The amount of androgens within the follicle increases, which deteriorates the quality of the egg. It would be beneficial to reach an ideal weight before starting IVF treatment. However, strict diets and excessive exercise should be avoided.
These practices are not recommended as they may disrupt the secretion of reproductive hormones produced by the pituitary gland.
What Vitamin Supplements Should Be Taken During IVF Treatment?
Vitamin D is now considered among hormones and is essential for the healthy functioning of all systems. It is recommended that patients undergoing IVF treatment, or couples planning a pregnancy in general, check their Vitamin D levels before starting unprotected intercourse, and take Vitamin D supplements if levels are low.
Resveratrol, which is abundantly found in grapes and nuts, increases the energy of the egg and the success of IVF treatment.
Another important substance is Coenzyme Q10, which is a powerful antioxidant. Using it at least 2 months before treatments improves egg quality.
Folic acid plays a crucial role in DNA production and cell division. It should be started before pregnancy and continued until the 12th week of pregnancy. It is essential for the healthy development of the embryo and fetus.
Omega-3 is derived from fish oil and certain algae. The use of Omega-3 has been shown to increase the chances of pregnancy.
What Foods Should Be Avoided During IVF Treatment?
During IVF treatments, caffeine consumption should be limited to no more than 2 cups of coffee or 4-5 cups of tea per day.
Smoking and alcohol have toxic effects that reduce the quality of both eggs and sperm, thereby decreasing the success of IVF treatment. It is advisable to make efforts to quit smoking and alcohol when planning a pregnancy.
Foods That Increase Implantation During IVF Treatment
For patients planning pregnancy, all foods included in the Mediterranean diet are recommended. This includes olive oil, meals prepared with olive oil, fish products rich in omega-3, avocados, leafy green vegetables, and raw nuts.