Embryo transfer is an important step in IVF treatment in which the gynecologist implants the embryos into the mother’s uterus. Maintaining good health is crucial for successful pregnancy outcomes.
Does it mean you must sacrifice your favorite foods? No, definitely not. These are common questions that come into the mind of a woman who undergoes IVF treatment.
You absolutely need to be mindful of what you eat following embryo transfer. One of the most common inquiries is whether or not you can eat chicken following the embryo transfer. Explore this blog further, to know the impacts of consuming chicken.
How can you eat chicken after embryo transfer?
- After embryo transfer, choose well-cooked lean proteins like chicken and avoid processed or deep-fried foods for a healthy pregnancy.
Eating chicken after embryo transfer is a good choice of lean protein, but the amount of consumption matters. You can also opt for other lean protein sources such as salmon, tofu, eggs, beans, and turkey.
Also, ensure it is well-cooked to avoid potential risks of foodborne diseases. Chicken is a lean protein that leads to healthy pregnancy and embryo development. But avoid consuming processed or deep-fried chicken during the gestation period. Fortunately, many healthy ways are there to include chicken in your diet.
Make sure that the chicken is well-cooked, you can bake, grill, or steam it. Chicken that is undercooked or raw can lead to foodborne illness.
One of the most delicious and soothing dishes is homemade chicken soup. Adding spices will enhance the soup’s taste, so try it. Chicken curry is the yummiest dish to combine with rotis, bread, and rice.
Why consider chicken after embryo transfer?
After the successful transfer, the embryo begins to grow actively. Your body requires enough protein and other nutrients to develop a healthy fetus. Chicken is a high-quality protein and the best alternative to red meat.
Pregnant ladies can get essential nutrients and minerals from well-cooked chicken for fetal development and health. It includes omega-6 fatty acids, B6, B12, Iron, Zinc, and Copper. Additionally, the low-fat content in chicken helps pregnant women maintain weight during gestation. For such reasons, a woman must consume a moderate amount of chicken after embryo transfer.
Nutritional benefits of chicken
The chicken comes to mind when the dietitian or doctor suggests consuming protein. It is also rich in iron and omega-3 fatty acids and low in fats. Chicken is an outstanding iron source, contributing to increased blood volume and placenta development.
Comparatively, chickens have lower omega-3 acids than fish. Still, consuming them may prevent preterm delivery and improve the baby’s brain development. Folate is one of the key nutrients for better reproductive health and a happy pregnancy journey.
Chicken is a good source of folic acid and vitamin B12, which helps synthesize the oocyte’s DNA molecule. It also increases embryo implantation rates in the endometrium.
How does food play an important role After embryo transfer?
The body releases more hormones and development proceeds more quickly following embryo transplantation. Women can become more hungry if the transfer is successful. Consuming a diet high in nutrients is crucial for the development of the fetus.
Pregnant women need certain nutrients like iron, folic acid, iodine, protein, potassium, vitamin D, fiber, and calcium. Generally, you can eat guava, berries, apples, eggs, nuts, seeds, tofu, chicken, and organic vegetables.
But do you know what foods to eat, particularly after embryo transfer? Read further to know about them.
Food to eat after embryo transfer
- Choose whole grains, leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, lean meats, and berries after embryo transfer for a nourishing and supportive pregnancy diet.
Whole Grains: Quinoa, oats, brown rice, and millet are highly recommended after embryo transfer. These are rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients. They help control cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight.
Leafy Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and broccoli are the best green leafy vegetables that help you attain a healthy pregnancy. The high folate content is great for the fetus and the mother, so include them in your diet.
Nuts and Seeds: Adding sunflower seeds, walnuts, chia seeds, almonds, and pumpkin seeds are great alternatives for processed snacks and carbonated drinks.
Legumes: Peanuts, chickpeas, lentils, beans, and peas are good sources of protein and fiber. Both nutrients support metabolic processes that promote baby cell growth and increase the chance of successful pregnancy outcomes.
Lean Meat: Chicken, eggs, lamb, and turkey provide sufficient protein, and salmon is high in omega-3. Including them in adequate quantities promotes embryo implantation and supports well-being.
Berries: Antioxidant and vitamin C-rich strawberries, Indian gooseberries, and blueberries protect cells from free radical damage and improve fertility outcomes.
In addition to berries, apples and avocados have great benefits for pregnancy and reproductive health. Make a fruit chat with them and enjoy it as a healthier alternative to packaged food items.
Food to avoid after embryo transfer
- Post-embryo transfer, avoid red meat, processed foods, sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat fried foods for a healthy pregnancy.
A favorable embryo development environment is pivotal so a woman can expect positive outcomes. But, some foods can affect the body and lead to the failure of embryo transfers. Here is the list of foods you should avoid after embryo transfer that safeguards you and your baby’s health.
- Red meat and saturated fat.
- Processed foods like chips, soda, and other carbonated drinks.
- Excessive sugary and salty foods.
- Caffeine.
- Alcohol and tobacco.
- Highly acidic foods and fruits.
- Raw and undercooked foods.
- Foods containing mercury.
- Unpasteurized cheese and dairy products.
- Raw sprouts and high-fat fried foods.
Tips for successful pregnancy after embryo transfer
- Post-embryo transfer, adhere to prescribed medications, maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoid stress, and follow medical advice for a successful pregnancy.
Apart from chicken intake, successful pregnancy after embryo transfer depends upon various factors.
- Continue taking your prescription medications.
- Include a healthy diet.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity.
- Drink an adequate amount of water and stay hydrated.
- Avoid sexual intercourse.
- Take sufficient rest.
- Avoid extreme temperatures like hot baths, saunas, and heating pads.
- Reduce stress.
- Cut off drinking and smoking.
- Include stress-free activities in daily to-do lists.
- Don’t take a pregnancy test immediately.
- Don’t miss any of your regular checkup appointments.
In addition to these common tips, follow your doctor’s advice from day one of the IVF treatment. Because you might question every normal thing after embryo transfer, it’s essential to get a clear understanding of the do’s and don’ts during this time. Don’t rush; stay calm and eat healthy items for a successful pregnancy.
In Conclusion
Nourishing your body with the right foods can improve the fetus’s health and prepare your body for embryo implantation. A woman can consume chicken after embryo transfer. However, to avoid foodborne diseases, it must be fully cooked and free from contaminants.
Follow the pre- and post-care tips provided by your doctor. They can guide you on the right path and bring successful pregnancy outcomes through IVF treatments.
FAQs
Chickens are safe after embryo transfer, but moderation is the key. You can include baked, grilled, and streamed chicken to get sufficient protein and essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and amino acids. Ideally, your body needs 1 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. So, consider including chicken as per it.
Avoid deep-fried and other processed chicken options, which make the meals as healthy as possible. You can choose chicken breast, which is low in fat and calories and rich in protein. Make sure it is fresh and tender. Instead of buying it from hotels or restaurants, try making it home.