Many egg donors describe their experience during their donation cycle and post-retrieval as being similar to PMS symptoms, such as cramping, bloating, fatigue, and soreness. There is a way to help conquer these common side effects and that is through the magic of food! We’ve compiled a list for donors to help fuel their body with key nutrients before and after their cycle.
- Lean Meats: Red meat, chicken, pork, salmon, and turkey all contain vitamin B12—best known for curing fatigue.
- Plant Based Protein: If you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, you can get extra protein from beans, quinoa, peanuts, tree nuts, peas, and lentils. These are also full of complex carbs which will boost serotonin levels, also known as the “feel-good hormone”.
- Dark Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and romaine lettuce have a great supply of vitamin A, an antioxidant which helps in supporting immune functions.
- Bananas: The less you sleep, the more susceptible you are to pain. Since bananas carry melatonin (the sleep hormone), they can help you get a restful sleep before and after retrieval.
- Berries: Cranberries, blackberries, and blueberries all contain high levels of antioxidants that will help fight inflammation. They may also help relieve the feeling of bloating and discomfort.
- Pumpkin Seeds: If a headache has you down, try eating some of these magnesium-filled super seeds.
- Fats & Oils: Avocados, olive oil, coconut oil, Greek yogurt, and peanut butter all contain healthy fats that are necessary building blocks for hormone production and regulation.
- Eggs: Rich in protein and healthy fatty acids, eggs will make donors feel full and satisfied while also fueling up on vitamins A, B2, B5, B12, and K.
- Saltine Crackers: These crackers give a good fix of sodium while also being easy on the tummy, an ideal combination for those who might be dealing with nausea or depleted appetite.
- Water & Electrolytes: Our clinical staff also advises our donors to drink plenty of fluids after retrieval to stay properly hydrated. Sports drinks such as Gatorade are ideal since they give donors electrolytes and sugar that help aide in reviving the body of nutrients and promote recovery.
FOODS TO EAT IN MODERATION OR MINIMALLY:
- Caffeine: Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and soda will increase your risk for dehydration and may slow down the healing process.
- Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages can increase the risk of swelling, thin your blood, and may cause complications with anesthesia and pain medication.
- Simple Carbohydrates: Refined sugar, corn syrup, white flour, and white rice cause extra bloating and don’t allow our bodies to store energy.
*Please note that every body is different and cycle related side effects to medications,
retrieval and recovery can vary from person to person.
