While it's true that making healthy lifestyle decisions cannot alone guarantee a successful outcome, these decisions can help to insure that the couple will feel better physically and mentally when they are giving their bodies what their bodies are craving for - proper nutrition.

If you are a couple trying to conceive, here are some suggestions that may help you to achieve your goal:

Couples should however refrain from going on any fad diets or strenuous exercising programs while they are approaching fertility treatment time.

It is important that the couple both be at their ideal body weight based on a height/weight ratio prior to starting their fertility treatment.

As soon as a woman has decided to conceive she should immediately start taking a prenatal vitamin daily. This will ensure that she is doing all she can to give her body the vitamins and minerals it needs to be in the best shape possible for conception. Important vitamins for women to take are: Vitamins A, E, Calcium, Essential fatty acids, Folic Acid, Iron and Zinc. For men it is important to take Vitamins C and D. The best way to get vitamins and minerals is through the healthy food choices you make each day.

There are foods that you should stay away from when trying to conceive because of their potential to cause infections. These foods are: deli meats and all per-packaged sandwich meats, meats that are undercooked, especially raw poultry and fish. You should also avoid unpasteurized dairy products and juices, especially soft cheeses.

Your fertility doctor will probably give you a list of other foods and substances to avoid while undergoing fertility treatment. Your doctor or other medical staff member can answer your questions regarding why they feel it necessary to avoid these items. Some of these items may include:

Ale

Alcohol

Aspirin

Antihistamines

Artificial sweeteners

Caffeine

Contaminated drinking water (especially important if traveling internationally)

Ginger Ale

Cigarettes or other tobacco products

Over-exertion while exercising can lead to an increased chance of problems with implantation or of achieving a successful pregnancy. Over-exertion has also been shown in research a connection to hyper stimulation of follicles during treatment.

Being aware of all the lifestyle changes such as fitness, wellness and nutrition gives you a sense of control in an otherwise out of control situation. Many patients report that when they feel that they have something to do that may contribute to a positive outcome; they feel less stressed and have a better mental and emotional outlook.

Your medical team will help you to make lifestyle decisions regarding environmental, work related and personal habits that may have an influence on a successful outcome to your treatment. Any list you receive during your initial visit should be viewed as a guideline. The ultimate decision regarding your lifestyle and any changes you are willing to make to ensure a successful outcome to your IVF or IUI is in your control.