The Effects of Diet on IVF Results By Sonja Kristiansen, MD on November 02, 2013

The Effects of Diet on IVF ResultsStarting a family of your own is the goal of so many people. It can be rich, rewarding, and a positive impact on your life. Even though there are so many wonderful things associated with being a parent, there can be a number of impediments as well. That's where the team at our fertility center can prove so helpful. By meeting with our team, we can help you start the family you have always wanted.

We receive a number of questions from prospective patients about in vitro fertilization (IVF). In particular, we receive many questions about how the chances of successful IVF can be improved. Let's consider this right now with regard to dietary concerns.

Can diet affect the results of in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

Yes, your diet can have some bearing on the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF). You see, there are many different things that can affect the success of IVF, and the diet of the patient is one of these things.

Wellness Is Always Ideal for the Best Results

As you may have expected, being in good health is a sure way of improving the results of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Patients who are obese or otherwise unhealthy face a number of medical conditions that can affect the potential success of any fertility treatment. It's always ideal for patients to eat right, exercise regularly, and be non-smokers.

Foods to Avoid, Refrain From, or Be Wary About

Leading up to and during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, we recommend that patients cut back on their consumption of alcohol and their in-take of caffeine. In the lead up to IVF, patients should only consume a half-glass of wine a day and only two cups of caffeinated beverages a day. If possible, patients should eliminate both from their diets to improve potential success.

While fish contains healthy fats that are crucial for good health, the mercury content in some kinds of seafood can be of concern. Be sure to eat seafood that has a relatively low mercury content, such as catfish, tilapia, salmon, and trout.

A Word on Fad Diets and Supposed Miracle Foods

You may see a lot of articles online about certain kinds of diets and certain kinds of foods being miracle foods for in vitro fertilization (IVF). While many of these foods can be helpful, you should not overdo it with any particular food or any particular diet. That brings us to the ultimate advice that we can give.

A Healthy, Balanced Diet Is Best

As always, the best option for patients is maintaining a healthy diet that's balanced. In the months leading up to in vitro fertilization (IVF), be sure to eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, and be sure avoid fatty foods and processed foods. Sometimes improving your health will allow you to conceive naturally, so keep that in mind as well.

Learn More About Fertility Treatment Options

For more information about in vitro fertilization (IVF) and how our team can help you achieve excellent results, be sure to contact our fertility clinics in Houston and Sugar Land today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you start the family that you have always wanted.

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Dr. Sonja Kristiansen

Houston Fertility Center

Dr. Sonja Kristiansen is the founder and Medical Director of Houston Fertility Center. She is a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Infertility (REI) specialist who is proud to help hopeful parents fulfill their dreams of having children. Our center is affiliated with the:

  • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
  • American Society for Reproductive Medicine
  • Texas Medical Association

We provide convenient care for patients from greater Houston and visitors from out of town. For more information about our services, contact our office online or call (713) 225-5375 today.

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