Foods to help in IVF

Now we have our 2nd IVF (FET) cycle planned and in (hopeful) place I have, once again, become OBSESSED with my dietary needs and how I can help with blood flow and implantation.

Here are some foods that I have researched to help with preparing my uterual lining for thickness and implantation.

H20

We all know how important it is to drink water in life? Well its more important when you are going through IVF. It helps with bloodflow and keeps you hydrated with all the hormones and chemmicals. I was told to drink 3 litres a day and also that all my food and drink be warm and room temperature. This helps the blood not rush to the stomach with cold foods when it should be at the uterus helping implantation etc.

BEETROOT

A wonderful source of the antioxidant resveratrol, which is thought to help infertility, beetroots are also rich in nitrates. 

These are well known to improve blood flow and are often used by athletes for this purpose. So getting that blood flow to you uterus is a plus and must and it helps with embryo implantation.

I use this with my morning smoothie. I make these at home as I know and have read up, that all shop bought are just full of sugar and fats:

• half a cup of "beet it" Beetroot juice.

• spinach raw.

• handful of blueberries, (I have tiny hands so not much) frozen.

• a teaspoon of peanut butter.

• Strawberries, frozen.

• Honey.

• Chai seeds

• linseeds.

• a high potein yoghurt (always need high protein items to keep a healthy uterus and prepare for pregancy).

AVOCADOS

I think we have all heard about the benefits of the avocado and infertility. It seems to be a big symbol for fertility and is just the one we all go to.

Wha tI have learnt is that fat is a really important necessity and nutrients for fertility.

Avocados are rich in fatty acids, which are associated with lower rates of ovulatory infertility.

In addition to fat, avocados also contain folate, potassium, and vitamin A, which are all important for reproductive health.

And they contain fiber and antioxidants that are just good for you in general!

I have these for my lunch everyday with a scrummy egg and some high protein seeded bread (and then a smidge of marmite as I am addicted!)

BRAZIL NUTS

Well this was a new one for me. I love nuts (childish snigger) but wasn't sure if I was ok to put these in my diet. Well it turns out they are full to the brim of selenium, which is a mineral that helps to thicken the uterine wall, and a healthy lining aids implantation obviously ladies!

Selenium also works in relation and increases blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, which may also increase the chance of conceiving. 

Ive been consuming 2-3 brazil nuts per day. Only fresh and raw and not cooked or roasted to make sure you get the full nutritional value.

Overal my Clinic have recommended a high protein diet and to eat fresh and well. Excercise lightly and in moderation after my egg transfer. After your transfer they will inform you to eat as if you are pregnant (techincally you will be until proven otherwise).

I cant walk the dogs due to them pulling but that doesnt stop me walking with my other half for the exercise and make sure i am moving daily instead of being stagnant.

What ever you are told and whatever you have read it all comes down to science and relaxing. It is a horrible thing to hear but you have done all you can and if you over think or over obsess this WILL add to your stress levels and worry.

My first cycle I did nothing but symptom watch, read, blog read, go on the support group on Facebook and ask stupid small questions. My advice- switch off, relax, read a book, laugh, shop, sleep and love.

H x