IVF (In vitro fertilization) is one of the most preferred infertility treatments that has a high success rate. If you have recently undergone the procedure, you should know that the diet you follow after the embryo transfer also plays a part in the success and failure of your procedure.
The two-week waiting period after the embryo transfer is the most important period of the IVF cycle. You need to be careful of what you do during this time and take good care of your body and health.
In this article, we will discuss some foods you can and cannot eat after embryo transfer. This will help you improve your health and prevent complications.
Foods To Eat After IVF Embryo Transfer
A balanced diet rich in all essential nutrients is essential for improving your health and creating a good setting for your embryo to implant and develop in the uterus. It also boosts your energy levels and helps you get through the procedure healthily.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are rich in fiber, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients your body needs during pregnancy. Some varieties of whole grains you can go for are listed below.
- Whole grain bread is a good source of fiber and Vitamin B, which are essential for embryo development.
- Brown rice contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support digestion and maintain blood sugar levels.
- Quinoa is rich in fiber, protein, minerals, amino acids, and other essential nutrients.
Lean Proteins
Proteins are the building blocks essential for the baby’s development. Lean proteins help regulate hormones & enzymes and regulate antibodies for your immune system.
Some good sources of lean proteins include eggs, chicken (especially chicken breasts), seeds, salmon (those high in omega acids), yogurt, beans, etc.
Note: While eating fish, ensure you avoid those that are high in mercury, like king mackerel and swordfish.
Dairy Products
Dairy products, like skimmed milk, greek yogurt, and cottage cheese, are a good source of calcium, vitamins, and proteins. They are also rich in zinc, which helps balance hormone levels and is vital for reproduction. They also help thicken the endometrium and nourish the embryo.
Fruits and Vegetables
A healthy dose of fresh fruits and vegetables every day can provide you with a ton of essential nutrients and antioxidants you need for a healthy pregnancy and also know about which fruits to avoid after embryo transfer.
Some fruits and vegetable you can take after your embryo transfer are
- Asparagus,
- Berries (strawberry, blueberry, etc.,)
- Avocado
- Corn
- Oranges
- Grapefruits
- Leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, turnip
- greens, mustard greens, etc.)
Healthy Fats
Not all forms of fat are bad for your body. Some healthy fats can support your baby’s brain development and heart health. Some foods that contain healthy fats are,
- Olive oil (rich in antioxidants and monounsaturated fats),
- Salmon (rich in omega-3 fatty acids),
- Nuts and seeds like almonds and walnuts (rich in healthy fats and other nutrients).
Hydration
Staying hydrated is vital to maintain a healthy body as it helps with metabolism, circulation, and digestion. They also boost the immune system and help remove impurities from the blood.
Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day at regular intervals. You can also try other liquids like fresh juices and herbal teas.
Foods Not To Eat
Listed above are some foods that can be beneficial for you to have after embryo transfer. Likewise, there are also some foods that you should avoid after embryo transfer.
Processed Foods
Strictly avoid processed foods if you are trying to get pregnant. They contain a lot of artificial sugars, fat, sodium, and other toxic ingredients that might promote inflammation and interfere with your chances of IVF success.
Processed and junk foods also cause hormonal imbalance, obesity, and PCOS. They also raise your chances of getting type 2 diabetes and other metabolic diseases.
High Sugar Content
Consuming foods high in sugar can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and inflammation. All these factors can affect implantation and IVF success rate. This is especially true if you consume foods or drinks high in artificial sugars. Foods and drinks like candies, sodas, and sugary cereals are some foods with high sugar content.
Excessive Caffeine
Excess caffeine has been shown to impair both male and female fertility and to frequently cause miscarriages. They can also have an impact on the implantation rate following an embryo transfer.
Consuming moderate amounts of caffeine is acceptable. Some caffeine content that you should limit are coffee, caffeinated energy drinks, black tea, etc,
Alcohol
Alcohol is another harmful substance that can influence your IVF success rate. Alcohol consumption during IVF can complicate your treatment and affect implantation and embryo development.
Try avoiding alcohol and smoking altogether a few months before starting your IVF treatments to have a better chance at success.
Raw or Undercooked Foods
Raw or undercooked foods contain bacteria and parasites that can harm your and your embryo’s health. It also increases the chances of food poisoning and other foodborne illnesses. Only consume foods that are fresh and thoroughly cooked.
Conclusion
The time after embryo transfer is the most crucial period of your IVF treatment. Maintain a healthy diet and try to improve your chances of pregnancy.
You can discuss with your ivf doctor and understand what you can and cannot do during this period. Ensure you do everything you can to ensure a successful and healthy pregnancy.
Yes, limiting your caffeine intake can have a positive impact on your fertility and IVF success rate. However, it would be even better if you quit it for the time you are undergoing IVF.
It is okay to add salt to your post-transfer diet, but don’t consume too much of it. Excess salt can cause water retention and high blood pressure and can be dangerous during pregnancy. Choose natural sodium sources such as olives, seaweed, or pickles over processed high-sodium foods.
Yes, you can have bananas after embryo transfer. They are a good source of potassium which can help reduce muscle cramps and maintain electrolyte levels in your body.
