If you’re about to receive fertility treatments such as ovulation induction, assisted insemination (IUI), Intraplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) or IVF, get your nutrition right with Katrina Ridout.

If you are struggling to conceive you are not alone! About 1 in 6 women need this extra help in getting pregnant.

If you are ready to start a family or add another child to your already existing family, have had fertility or medical issues and have tried all other fertility options, such as ovulation induction, assisted insemination (IUI), Intraplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) is then often used to have a biological child.

Through the IVF procedure, egg retrieval occurs and is used to artificially fertilise an egg with sperm, creating an embryo, which is then placed inside a woman. The success of the procedure is then assessed through blood tests and a transvaginal ultrasound. If the cycle is successful, this embryo transfer will result in a pregnancy and natural live birth.

The lead up to IVF treatment

Through a healthy, structured and individualised diet, particularly in the month leading up to the beginning of your IVF cycle, you are able to ensure that your body is as healthy and strong as possible ready for the in vitro fertilisation process. The month leading up to the treatment is crucial for ensuring that you are ready for this process.

During this time, you may feel various different emotions. It is common for feelings of sadness, anxiety and uncertainty to all be present before, during and after an IVF cycle. After all, IVF can take time, be costly and physically intense.

What to eat during IVF

In the lead up to and during an IVF cycle, it is very important for both men and women to maintain a balanced diet. Both sperm health and egg health are very important in ensuring the process works.

Whilst it is important to make sure that a healthy diet is followed, it is also important that no extreme changes are made. It is recommended for both male and female candidates to follow a Mediterranean diet, though the exact nutrients required differ from person to person.

For those looking to conceive, it is important to:

  • Include plenty of healthy fats from foods such as avocado
  • Eat plenty of leafy greens
  • Eat protein with every meal
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol where possible
  • Take a daily multivitamin supplement
  • managing any dietary conditions that you may have

What not to eat during IVF

There are certain foods and drinks that should be avoided during the IVF process, including:

  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol
  • Processed foods
  • Trans fats
  • Sugar

For more specific advice, it is best to speak with a dietitian with experience in helping patients go through IVF.

Boosting your chances of a successful treatment

If you are looking to undergo IVF, it is important to give yourself the best chance possible at making this fertility treatment work.

One way to do this is to receive advice from a fertility dietitian who has experience in working with people using assisted reproductive technologies, such as Katrina Ridout. Katrina is an Accredited Practising Dietitian with a focus on fertility and pregnancy dietetics. As part of her work, she provides fertility nutrition services to help women and men boost their chances of success with IVF.

What to expect when working with an IVF & fertility nutritionist

An IVF nutritionist will assess your current diet and make any necessary changes to ensure that you are getting all of the nutrients that you need for a successful cycle. They will also provide support and advice during this difficult time, and work with you to understand your unique situation.

With the help of an accredited dietitian, you can develop an IVF-friendly diet plan that will improve and optimise your health, wellbeing and fertility in the lead up to and duration of your IVF cycle.

IVF nutritionist in Brisbane

Accredited Practising Dietitian Katrina Ridout has over 15 years of experience as a nutritionist, and is a fertility specialist. She possesses the expertise to design tailor-made nutrition plans based on scientifically-backed evidence to give you the best chance of fertility. 

Find out more about how Kat Ridout can help you by contacting Kat today. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How important is diet during IVF?

A well-balanced and nutritious diet is crucial during IVF and can positively impact fertility by helping to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, providing essential nutrients for embryo development, regulating blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation, supporting hormone production, and optimising overall reproductive health. It’s advisable to consult with healthcare providers such as an IVF dietitian for personalised dietary recommendations to enhance the chances of a successful IVF outcome, as individual dietary needs may vary, and tailored guidance can be invaluable in this journey to conception.

During IVF treatment, it’s advisable to avoid or limit highly processed foods with added sugars and saturated fats, excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, soy products that contain phytoestrogens, high-mercury fish, unpasteurised dairy, unwashed fruits and vegetables, excessive red meat, high-sodium diets, and artificial sweeteners, as these factors can potentially disrupt hormonal balance, increase inflammation, and negatively impact fertility. Individual dietary needs may vary, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian with expertise in fertility to create a personalised nutrition plan that best supports your specific circumstances and enhances the likelihood of a successful IVF outcome.

Complementing IVF treatment with a balanced diet involves focusing on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and dairy or dairy alternatives fortified with essential nutrients. These foods provide a range of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre that support overall health, hormonal and reproductive well-being. Adequate hydration, mindful eating, and moderation of caffeine intake are also important. While a nutritious diet can positively impact fertility, it’s essential to combine it with a comprehensive approach that includes stress management, regular exercise, and personalised dietary guidance from a healthcare provider or registered dietitian specialising in fertility to maximise the chances of a successful IVF outcome.

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