Battling with infertility can be a massive blow for couples, but luckily, in vitro fertilisation has presented a workable solution for people trying to conceive. Nonetheless, IVF is not a sure-fire way of getting pregnant. Although this method has proven successful for numerous couples, some individuals may have to struggle through this process and engage in several treatments before they conceive. Hence, it is advisable for hopeful parents to try their best to increase their chances of a successful cycle. One of the measures you can take toward making the most of your IVF cycle is ensuring you are receiving the proper nutrition. Below are a few of the do's and don'ts regarding nutrition during an IVF cycle.

Do take complex carbs

Low carb and keto lifestyles are some of the latest trends in nutrition, and they are especially popular with people looking to lose or maintain their weight. However, a low carb diet will not be suitable for women that are seeking to conceive through IVF. Complex carbohydrates, for example, sweet potatoes, brown rice and quinoa, are essential to providing your body's cells with sufficient energy. Moreover, the carbohydrates also help in boosting your reproductive system, which increases your chances of conception. It is recommended that women who are undergoing IVF should have several small meals throughout the day and each should contain at least one complex carb to meet their energy requirements.

Do increase your zinc intake

Zinc is not a mineral that many people think about of a day-to-day basis. What may surprise you is that it is a crucial part of healthy nutrition, as it will significantly increase the chances of conception when undergoing an in vitro fertilisation cycle. Zinc is capable of doing this because it works to maintain the optimum level of hormones in your body. When these hormones are coursing through your bloodstream, you have a better chance of conceiving during your cycle. Some of the foods enriched with zinc that you could introduce into your diet include dairy products, beans, whole grains and so on.

Don't take refined sugars

Sugar is ubiquitous in a host of foods and beverages. Thus, you may find it overwhelming to cut it out of your diet. However, it is prudent that you try as hard as you can to because refined sugars can wreak havoc on your system. Since your body burns refined sugars quite quickly, the sugar levels in your blood begin to experience sudden spikes and dips. Resultantly, the erratic insulin levels end up affecting your fertility, making it challenging to conceive.

For more information about IVF, speak to a gynaecologist.