Infertility is known as the inability of a woman to become pregnant despite regular sexual intercourse of the couple for at least one year without using any contraceptive method. At the same time, infertility is recognized as a critical health problem for couples and society. It is estimated that approximately 1,5-2 million couples in our country are infertile. Couples who cannot achieve successful results with natural methods and medicated treatments after being diagnosed with infertility aim to have a child with in vitro fertilization treatment. Nutrition is among the factors that significantly affect the success rate of IVF treatment. From Memorial Diyarbakir Hospital Nutrition and Diet Department, Uz. dit. İrem Akpolat gave information about the importance of nutrition and questions in IVF treatment.
Excess weight increases the risk of infertility
The importance of nutrition for reproductive health is increasingly recognized. Evidence on the impact of lifestyle factors on general health and fertility (infertility) is increasing day by day. Negative lifestyle behaviors related to infertility are changeable habits, behaviors or situations that negatively affect fertility. These factors are; are modifiable factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, weakness, nutrition, exercise, environmental harmful substances/occupation, stress. Another cause of infertility is foods containing hormones and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Estrogen hormone in hormonal foods causes breast enlargement, loss of sexual power in men, and suppression of ovulation in women. It is important for couples to acquire positive health habits in order to prevent the negative effects of lifestyle, which is effective on male and female infertility, on reproductive performance. Common problems in women with obesity; Menstrual cycle (cycle) disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), decrease in fertility and sexual desire occur as a result of changes in hormonal balances. All women of childbearing age should receive education about maternal and fetal risks associated with pre-pregnancy obesity, excessive weight gain during pregnancy, and postpartum weight.
It is important to be at the ideal weight for IVF treatment.
Although not as common as obesity, being underweight also has negative effects on infertility. It should be noted that the chance of fertilization will increase with the increase in body weight of women who are below the body mass index and who have irregular menstruation (menstrual bleeding) or do not have menstruation. Adequate and balanced nutrition during IVF treatment is very important due to its improving effects on sperm and egg health. Many studies have reported that a diet model that includes seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, vegetable protein sources, whole grains, fish and monounsaturated fats has a positive effect on the success of IVF treatment. One of the factors that increase the success of IVF treatment is to be at the ideal weight. Before starting the treatment, help of a dietitian can be taken to achieve the ideal weight. Scientific studies have shown that the increased rate of pregnancy loss after in vitro fertilization (IVF) is associated with the abnormal endocrine, metabolic and inflammatory uterine environment caused by obesity. As obesity increases, the risk of miscarriage and anomalies during and after birth also increase.
These foods are recommended in IVF treatment
1. Foods rich in folic acid and Omega 3 are positively associated with fertility rates. It also supports a healthy pregnancy by reducing birth defects and other risks. Folic acid is also important for men, thought to help increase sperm count. Foods rich in folic acid: spinach, lentils, black-eyed peas, asparagus, beans, broccoli, avocado, beets, Brussels sprouts, etc. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals is recommended.
2. To correct vitamin D and iodine deficiency, it is vital to control blood concentrations and consider supplementation if necessary.
3. Choosing the right carbohydrate source is very important. Whole grain products, especially rich in complex carbohydrates, fibers, vitamins and minerals, and dry legumes should definitely be included in the diet.
4. During this period, people should take care to consume enough protein. As protein sources, vegetal ones should be emphasized. Vegetable protein sources: Lentils, quinoa, chia, walnuts, etc. Consumption of chicken, turkey and fish from animal proteins can be emphasized. Fish also has beneficial effects in terms of omega-3.
There are foods that should be avoided during IVF treatment. Trans fats (found in fried foods, processed foods, baked goods, and margarine) Fast food,
Sugar-sweetened and acidic beverages, excess caffeine and sugar substitutes should not be used.