Understanding the Post-IVF Trend of McDonald’s Fries: Myth or Fact?
It’s become something of a modern IVF ritual: the embryo transfer is done, and you find yourself pulling into a McDonald’s drive-thru for some salty, oily fries.
But where did this trend come from? And more importantly, is there any science behind it?
Let’s unpack the origins, the facts, and what your body actually needs during this phase of your fertility journey.
The Origins of the Post-Transfer McDonald’s Fries Trend
This idea likely began with well-meaning advice shared in fertility forums. It was suggested that salty fries could help prevent OHSS (Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome), a condition in which the ovaries to swell and become painful causing nausea & vomiting and extreme bloating. OHSS is more common in those who produce many eggs during the stimulation phase of the IVF cycle.
Some also believed that high-fat, high-salt foods may improve blood flow and increase implantation chances.
But here’s the truth: no research shows McDonald’s fries improve IVF success rates. Eek! We said it!
If it makes you feel good inside, then one serve of fast food isn’t going to hurt, but unfortunately, there’s no plausible science linking this specific chain of fries to implantation success.
So what should you do instead?
Don’t Wait Until the Two-Week Wait to Nourish Your Fertility
While it’s fantastic to nurture yourself during what could be the very first days of pregnancy, if you’re serious about optimising your chances of conception, it’s important to start well before embryo transfer.
In fact, we strongly recommend focusing on your fertility nutrition at least 3-6 months before you try to conceive. Whether you’re planning to conceive unassisted or preparing for IVF, or considering egg freezing, preparation is key!
That’s the window of time needed to influence egg and sperm quality and begin laying the foundations for your future child’s lifelong health. Research shows that the first 1,000 days (from preconception through to your child’s second birthday) are the most critical for shaping health outcomes across their entire life.
Supporting Implantation in the Two-Week Wait
If you’re already past the ideal 3-6 month preconception window and are now in the two-week wait, there are still some key foods that can help support your body during this time.
Implantation refers to the moment when the embryo attaches itself to the endometrial lining of the uterus. To give it the best chance of success, we want to promote the development of a sufficiently thick (7-9 mm+) healthy uterine lining and reduce inflammation in the pelvis. This helps create a nourishing, receptive environment that the embryo will want to call home.
1. Eat Your Greens
Leafy green vegetables are rich in folate, a fertility-supporting nutrient that not only helps prevent neural tube defects but may also play a role in implantation success.
2. Make the Switch to Wholegrains
Wholegrains offer B vitamins, iron, iodine, and fibre – all essential in supporting endometrial lining thickness and overall reproductive health.
For example, try some oats for breakfast, a side of brown rice or quinoa at dinner, snack on some wholegrain crackers.
3. Focus on an Anti-inflammatory diet
Excess inflammation in the pelvic cavity may interfere with implantation. A Mediterranean-style, anti-inflammatory diet is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats that support a more receptive uterine environment.
Think lots of colourful vegetables and fruits, extra virgin olive oil, fatty fish (like salmon and sardines), legumes and pulses, nuts and seeds, herbs and spices. More on the Mediterranean Diet for fertility here!
4. Add Nitrate-Rich Foods for Blood Flow
Nitrates may help enhance blood flow by increasing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body- including to the uterus, where a well-nourished, receptive environment is key for implantation success.
A recent study examined the effects of Beetroot, Ginger & Watermelon Juice on implantation & the results are promising.
Read more here: Can Beetroot, Watermelon & Ginger Juice Support Embryo Implantation During IVF?
5. Don’t Forget Your Prenatal Supplement Routine
Be sure to keep taking your prenatal supplement – it delivers key nutrients that support both early pregnancy and your ongoing fertility journey.
We like to think of your prenatal as a little extra nutritional insurance. It helps fill any dietary gaps by providing essentials like folate (or folic acid), iodine, B vitamins, and zinc, which are all vital for implantation, embryo development, and supporting your body through the increased demands of pregnancy.
Unsure which prenatal is right for you? Book in for an Express Prenatal Supplement Consult with one of our expert fertility dietitians in our virtual clinic today.
Want more tips? Read our blog: What to eat in the two week wait
Don’t Forget About Your Mental Health
Managing stress during the two-week wait is easier said than done. It’s a uniquely challenging and emotional time, but prioritising small moments of self-care can make a big difference.
While nutrition is important, try not to overthink every bite. Make space for your favourite ‘fun’ foods too – they’re just as important for your emotional wellbeing during this waiting period.
Read more: Does Exercise Help or Harm Fertility?
So… Should You Eat Fries After Your Transfer?
Here’s the real answer: if it makes you feel good, go ahead.
There’s no harm in treating yourself to something comforting – especially after the emotional marathon of IVF. But don’t rely on it as a fertility “hack.”
Instead, aim for balanced meals that support your reproductive health and leave room for joy and flexibility.
Looking For Expert Guidance To Support Your IVF Journey?
Book a Fertility Nutrition Intensive in our virtual clinic with one of our experienced Australian fertility dietitians to get personalised, evidence-based nutrition strategies tailored to you and your fertility goals.