When you're trying to get pregnant, nutrition plays a powerful role in preparing your body for conception. Whether you're trying naturally or undergoing assisted reproductive treatments like IVF or IUI, what you eat can support hormone balance, egg quality,sperm quality, ovulation, and even embryo implantation. While no single diet guarantees pregnancy, studies have shown that certain foods can increase your fertility potential, while others may hinder it.
At IVF Treatment Istanbul, we believe that a whole-body approach to fertility is essential. At IVF Treatment Istanbul, that includes addressing not just reproductive organs but also lifestyle, emotional well-being, and most importantly, nutrition. We guide our patients with evidence-based nutrition strategies to complement their fertility journey.
The goal of a fertility-friendly diet is to reduce inflammation, support hormone function, and enhance reproductive health. Below are some key food groups to include:
Spinach, kale, broccoli, arugula, and Swiss chard are rich in folate, iron, and antioxidants. These nutrients are crucial for healthy ovulation and preparing your body for early pregnancy.
Choose sources of unsaturated fats, such as:
These fats help regulate hormone production and improve blood flow to reproductive organs.
Berries, pomegranates, oranges, and kiwis are packed with vitamin C, vitamin E, and polyphenols, which reduce oxidative stress on eggs and sperm.
Include lean sources of protein like:
Aim for more plant-based proteins and reduce red meat intake to lower inflammation and support ovulation.
Replace white bread and pasta with whole grains like:
These stabilize blood sugar and support hormonal balance.
Certain foods and drinks can disrupt hormonal balance, spike inflammation, or interfere with egg quality. It’s best to limit or avoid the following:
Found in packaged snacks, fried fast food, margarine, and baked goods. These fats negatively impact insulin sensitivity and ovulation.
Sugary drinks, sweets, white bread, and pasta can lead to insulin spikes, weight gain, and hormone imbalance — all of which can harm fertility.
High caffeine intake (more than 200–300 mg/day) may affect ovulation and increase miscarriage risk. Limit to 1 cup of coffee per day or switch to herbal teas.
Alcohol can reduce fertility in both women and men. It's best to avoid alcohol completely while trying to conceive and during fertility treatments.
Avoid raw fish (like sushi),unpasteurized cheeses and dairy, and undercooked meats, as they carry a higher risk of infection that could harm early pregnancy.
While moderate soy may be okay, excessive soy can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormone balance.
While food should come first, certain supplements may help support fertility. Always talk to your doctor before starting any supplement https://ivftreatmentistanbul.com/blog/vitamins-in-ivf-treatment
When trying to get pregnant—whether naturally or through IVF—certain fertility supplements can play a supportive role alongside a healthy diet.
One of the most important is folic acid, a B-vitamin recommended at 400–800 micrograms daily, as it helps with egg development and supports the early stages of pregnancy by preventing neural tube defects.
Vitamin D3 is another key nutrient that supports hormone balance and may improve ovarian function, especially in women with low sun exposure.
CoQ10 is often recommended for women over age 35, as it may enhance egg quality by boosting energy production in the cells.
Omega-3 fatty acids (specifically DHA and EPA) help reduce inflammation, regulate hormones, and support a healthy uterine lining, making them beneficial for both female and male fertility.
Iron is essential, particularly for women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding or are anemic, as low iron levels can interfere with ovulation and implantation.
Finally, inositol—especially myo-inositol—is a natural compound that has shown promising results in improving ovarian function and hormone sensitivity in women with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Always consult your fertility specialist to personalize your supplement plan and ensure it's safe and effective for your unique needs.
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If you're preparing for IVF treatment, your diet plays a vital role in supporting hormonal balance, egg quality, and a receptive uterine environment. To give your body the best chance for success, it’s recommended to start eating a fertility-focused diet at least 2 to 3 months before your IVF cycle. This allows time for your nutritional choices to positively influence egg maturation and overall reproductive health.
Staying well-hydrated with 2 to 2.5 liters of water per day helps improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries and supports cellular function.
Keeping your blood sugar stable by eating regular, balanced meals that include healthy fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates is also essential for hormonal balance.
It's best to avoid restrictive or extreme diets, as your body needs consistent nourishment to support conception and embryo implantation.
Additionally, if you have known sensitivities or conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, consider reducing processed soy, gluten, and dairy, as these may trigger inflammation or hormone disruption in some individuals.
Working closely with a fertility specialist and possibly a nutritionist can help you personalize your diet for optimal IVF success.
Yes, studies have shown that certain foods can positively or negatively influence ovulation, egg quality, hormonal balance, and implantation.
No, but consistent healthy choices over time matter. Focus on balanced meals, whole foods, and reducing inflammatory triggers.
Your diet can be tailored to your specific diagnosis:
PCOS: Focus on low-glycemic, anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, fish, and whole grains. Avoid sugar and processed carbs.
Endometriosis: Reduce red meat, gluten, and dairy, and increase omega-3s and plant-based meals.
Thyroid imbalances: Ensure you're getting enough iodine, selenium, and zinc from food or supplements under medical guidance.
While a healthy diet may not guarantee pregnancy on its own, it plays a critical role in enhancing fertility by supporting egg quality, balancing reproductive hormones, and creating a uterine environment that is ideal for implantation. Whether you're trying to conceive naturally or preparing for an upcoming IVF cycle in Istanbul, your daily food choices can directly influence your chances of success.
At IVF Treatment Istanbul, we take a holistic approach to reproductive health. In addition to advanced fertility treatments, we provide personalized nutrition guidance to help you prepare your body for conception and pregnancy. From improving ovulation to reducing inflammation and supporting embryo development, every bite you take can become a step toward your goal. Let us help you optimize your fertility from the inside out—starting with a plate full of nourishing, fertility-supporting foods tailored to your unique needs.
Thyroid imbalances: Ensure you're getting enough iodine, selenium, and zinc from food or supplements under medical guidance.
IVF TREATMENT ISTANBULProf. Dr. Nilgün Turhan
IVF TREATMENT ISTANBUL
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