Eating healthy foods is one of the best forms of self-care. Fueling your body with healthy and nutritious foods helps maintain a healthy body weight and prevent certain diseases and chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. In addition, when you eat the right foods you give your body a sense of well-being. There is no more important time to stick to a healthy diet than when you are trying to conceive. In fact, some studies show that what you eat leading up to IVF and during your IVF cycles has a direct impact on the success of your treatment.
What the experts say
There are many so-called "fertility diets" on social media and you will certainly hear a lot of advice from those around you - but not all of this information comes with any scientific documentation. There are recent studies, however, which concluded that success rates for those who strictly followed the Mediterranean diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish and good fats) were greater than those who did not.
Discovering the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet
Although referred to as a diet, the Mediterranean lifestyle is perhaps a more apt term. A wealth of research highlights the benefits of the Mediterranean lifestyle, noting that residents of the Mediterranean basin experience lower rates of diseases that are more common in wealthier Western nations. Good cardiovascular health and the absence of diabetes were some of the conditions that attracted attention and promoted further studies of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Physical activity such as walking and swimming, socializing on a regular basis all contribute to a balanced lifestyle. These activities relieve the mind and help manage stress. It is important to incorporate these habits into your daily life as much as possible, whether you are in the IVF phase or not. But, of course, the cornerstone of the Mediterranean lifestyle is a healthy diet.
The nutrition
The traditional foods of the Mediterranean diet are usually unprocessed, organic and seasonal. Common foods in the Mediterranean diet:
- Fresh seasonal and local vegetables and fruits
- Whole grains
- Limited fish (with your doctor's approval)
- Poultry (moderate amount)
- Eggs (moderate amount)
- Legumes (peas, beans, lentils and chickpeas)
- Healthy vegetable fats, such as avocado, nuts, bitter fruits, seeds and olive oil
Avoid processed foods (prepackaged meals, canned soups, etc.), too much sugar and too much flour. You will notice that the Mediterranean diet includes red meat, but not in excessive amounts and not in its processed form. Do not forget, of course, that each person has different nutritional needs. Those following a vegan or vegetarian diet and those with food sensitivities or allergies may substitute or avoid certain foods from the list. Certain hormonal conditions, such as PCOS, may also prevent you from enjoying some of the above foods.
Supplements
Both you and your partner should follow the diet as closely as possible for IVF success. It is also often necessary to take certain supplements. A full spectrum of vitamins and minerals that support the reproductive system and prepare your body for pregnancy is very important for your overall health.
Your IVF journey
Always mindful of each person's individual needs and with up-to-date information, we stand by you with respect and empathy on your IVF journey. Contact the Center for Reproductive Medicine & Fetal Medicine Alexandros Traianos by calling (+30) 2310 277 032 or by filling out the relevant contact form. We're here for the answers you need!
