Worldwide, IVF stands as one of the most successful forms of reproductive procedures, resulting in more than 500,000 infants born annually. However, IVF is not the only way through which one can determine the outcome of this procedure. Success odds can be drastically boosted by an all-encompassing approach encompassing healthy eating, frequent exercise, restorative sleep, and mindful practices, thereby creating the ideal environment for conception.

Diet and IVF Outcome

Dr. Umesh N Jindal, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Director of Jindal IVF Chandigarh, says that a well-balanced diet is crucial to upgrading the success rate of the IVF process. Fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains with healthy fat characterise a Mediterranean-style diet and have been shown to significantly affect the success rate of IVF, especially in women up to 35 years of age. According to Dr. Jindal, this diet helps check the level of insulin, elevates the quality of eggs, and provides a conducive environment for embryos to implant.

Equally important, Dr. Jindal says, is maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight may cause issues in ovulation, egg quality, and conception. He explains that weight loss becomes necessary for success in IVF because even minor weight loss—5 to 10 percent—improves ovulatory cycles, balances hormonal levels, and may increase fertility.

Dr. Jindal says that engaging in moderate physical activity benefits those undergoing IVF as it improves their physical and mental health. He suggests activities like swimming, which is a good cardiovascular exercise that is not harsh on the joints, or walking at a steady pace to keep the body active without overworking it. Light yoga, Dr. Jindal adds, may also prove to be very helpful as it not only provides relaxation but also builds strength, which is of great importance during fertility treatment. However, he warns against high-intensity or very strenuous exercise, as it can negatively impact hormone balance and the results of IVF.

Dr. Jindal also stresses that sleep is as important as exercise in supporting fertility. Referring to a 2013 study, he says that women who sleep seven to eight hours per night are more likely to conceive than those with irregular or inadequate sleep. Good sleep, he adds, regulates reproductive hormones like melatonin and cortisol, which are crucial for an effective IVF cycle. Irregular sleep patterns, according to him, disrupt the regulation of these hormones, making conception even harder. Ensuring consistent and restful sleep increases overall fertility and improves the chances of a positive result after IVF.

Dr. Umesh N Jindal points out that lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption greatly impact fertility. A review of studies in 2017, he explains, revealed that alcohol consumption above 12.5 grams per day can prevent conception, disrupt ovulation, and disturb hormonal balance. Among men, he says that alcohol consumption is linked to low-quality sperm, reduced sperm count, and abnormal sperm morphology.

Dr. Jindal further advises that caffeine is another risk factor, often consumed in massive amounts in drinks like coffee, tea, and energy drinks. According to him, research evidence has shown that overconsumption—more than 200-300 milligrams per day—delays conception and increases the risk of miscarriage. For men, excessive caffeine intake can reduce sperm quality. He recommends reducing or stopping caffeine altogether and switching to decaf to help improve fertility.

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