Why a Mediterranean Diet Can Benefit People Going Through IVF, According to a Fertility Expert

IVF is a common fertility treatment that can take a toll on the mental and physical health of those going through it. Fertility specialist Nirali Shah Jain, MD recommends a Mediterranean-style diet for people undergoing IVF, as it emphasizes nutrient-dense plant-based foods. While there is no magic food linked to IVF success, a balanced diet filled with various nutritious foods may increase the chance of success by impacting reproductive health and setting the stage for a healthy pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins and supplements like CoQ10 are also recommended to support reproductive health during IVF.

Experts suggest that a Mediterranean diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, olive oil, and plant-based proteins, can be beneficial during IVF treatment. This diet helps patients tolerate the hormonal changes from IVF treatments better by avoiding fried and processed foods. The Mediterranean diet is particularly helpful for vegetarians in meeting their daily protein requirements and is considered one of the healthiest ways to eat due to its focus on plant-based whole foods.