Optimising your chances through nutrition and lifestyle

Having now decided to go ahead with your IVF or egg freezing, it’s a great idea to look after your health, fitness and wellbeing in preparation for fertility treatment

It is a well-known fact that being of a higher BMI decreases your chances of successful pregnancies, both through natural and artificial conception.

Evidence suggests that five to ten per cent weight loss improves insulin resistance and provides a better hormonal environment favouring conception.

Malnutrition on the other hand has shown evidence to reduce chances of fertility. Apart from situations such as famine, poverty and sickness – undernutrition can occur due to being unaware, extreme dieting and developing phobias to certain foods.

A leading nutritionist says ‘I see a lot of couples who have developed an unhealthy eating pattern because they would like to conceive; and they religiously follow tips found on the internet. This might not always be helpful as not all articles are scientifically based. I strongly believe no food group qualifies as ‘bad’ and good nutrition first involves developing a healthy relationship with your food.’

What do I eat when I am planning to proceed with IVF?

Generally speaking, a balanced diet with whole grains, five to seven servings of fruits of vegetables, protein from both vegetarian and animal sources, adequate hydration and good exercise and sleep is important.

Have a plan of action around the days you are undergoing IVF so that the rush and anxiety doesn’t make you skip meals. I would also recommend a supplementation of 400 mcg of folic acid for anyone planning a pregnancy.

 

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