by A recent analysis of the evidence surrounding nutritional supplements and diets that may improve outcomes in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments has concluded that following a Mediterranean diet during treatment is a straightforward and beneficial approach. The analysis, conducted by Professor Roger Hart from the University of Western Australia and City Fertility in Perth, Australia, found that while the evidence for several nutritional supplements was inconsistent and of poor quality, the research supporting the Mediterranean diet was stronger.
According to Professor Hart, the extent to which nutritional supplements are used in IVF is largely unknown, as they are typically purchased online or over-the-counter and not prescribed. However, online IVF discussion forums indicate that these supplements are widely used and of great public interest.
The nine nutritional supplements analyzed in the study were dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), melatonin, co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10), carnitine, selenium, Vitamin D, myo-inositol, omega-3, Chinese herbs, and several diets, including weight loss. While some supplements, such as DHEA and CoQ10, showed some benefit in studies for patients with a poor response to IVF treatment, the evidence was inconsistent. Melatonin also demonstrated potential benefits, but further research is needed to determine which patient groups may benefit and at what dosage.
In contrast, the evidence supporting a Mediterranean diet was more compelling. Several well-designed randomized clinical trials demonstrated the benefits of a Mediterranean diet in both embryo development and pregnancy outcomes, even from just a six-week intervention program. The key elements of this diet include high intakes of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish, and monounsaturated or polyunsaturated oils, with limited consumption of highly processed foods.
Professor Hart explained that these diets are high in B-vitamins, antioxidants, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and fiber, while being low in saturated fat, sugar, and sodium. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are often taken as combined preparations, have been extensively studied in IVF literature due to their perceived benefits in overall health and reproduction. The evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may improve IVF clinical outcomes and embryo quality.
Regarding antioxidants, which are often taken as combined supplements, one major review found that they had low-quality evidence and did not demonstrate any benefit in terms of live birth rate.
Based on these findings, Professor Hart recommended a simple nutritional approach for IVF treatment: adopting a Mediterranean diet. He also suggested that women who had a poor response to ovarian stimulation in previous IVF cycles may benefit from taking COQ10 and DHEA before starting IVF. Additionally, supplementation with omega-3 free fatty acids may improve certain clinical and embryological outcomes.
Overall, Professor Hart advised that all women attempting to conceive should ensure they are taking adequate folate supplementation and should consult their general practitioner or specialist to optimize their general health for conception.
In conclusion, this analysis highlights the effectiveness of a Mediterranean diet in improving IVF success rates. While the evidence for nutritional supplements was inconsistent and of poor quality, adopting a Mediterranean diet offers a straightforward and evidence-based approach for women undergoing IVF treatment.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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