IVF Diet: Foods to Eat and Avoid During Treatment

What you eat during IVF can support your treatment. Here's a simple, practical guide to foods that help — and foods to avoid.

While no diet can guarantee IVF success on its own, good nutrition supports your body through treatment and may improve egg and sperm quality. Here's a practical, no-nonsense guide.

Foods That Can Help

• Leafy greens and vegetables — rich in folate, important for egg quality and early pregnancy.
• Whole grains — brown rice, oats, and whole wheat help maintain stable blood sugar, which supports hormone balance.
• Lean protein — dals, eggs, fish, and chicken support tissue repair and hormone production.
• Healthy fats — nuts, seeds, and ghee in moderation support hormone health.
• Fruits — berries and citrus fruits provide antioxidants that support egg and sperm quality.
• Dairy — full-fat dairy in moderation has been linked to better ovulation in some studies.
• Water — staying well-hydrated supports overall treatment response.

Foods and Habits to Avoid or Limit

• Alcohol — best avoided completely during treatment.
• Smoking — significantly reduces both egg and sperm quality; quitting is strongly recommended before starting treatment.
• Excess caffeine — limit to 1–2 cups of tea/coffee a day.
• Trans fats and heavily processed food — linked to inflammation and poorer fertility outcomes.
• Excess sugar — can affect insulin levels, which in turn affects hormone balance (especially relevant for PCOS patients).
• Raw or undercooked food — avoid during the treatment and pregnancy phase due to infection risk.

A Simple Rule of Thumb

Aim for a balanced, home-cooked diet with plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and protein — the same principles as general healthy eating, with a bit more attention to consistency during your treatment cycle.

Our team at Kalyani IVF, Saharsa can provide personalised dietary guidance as part of your treatment plan. Book a consultation to learn more.