If you’ve searched anything related to fertility treatment online, you may have run across the pineapple theory. Where did this hype about eating pineapples for embryo implantation? The answer lies in bromelain, an enzyme found in abundance in the pineapple core. Bromelain has powerful anti-inflammatory and anticoagulation properties, important factors for successful implantation. The less inflammation and more blood flow there is to the uterine lining, the healthier the environment for the embryo.
The thing is, there is absolutely no scientific evidence that eating pineapple or even supplementing with bromelain helps support implantation. Is it going to hurt? Probably not. But there’s no proof that it will help. Just know that eating a pineapple core after an embryo transfer is not going to make or break implantation.
If you like pineapple and want to eat some – then amazing. Pineapple has lots of vitamin c and antioxidants. If you have a sensitivity to pineapple (it upsets your stomach or makes your lips tingle and your tongue numb) then please avoid it at all costs.
Pineapple is also very high in sugar, and we know that keeping your blood sugar stable after transfer is very important. Focus on high protein and fiber meals and eating regular meals. You can enjoy pineapple as a dessert but avoid it as a snack on an empty stomach (which will increase the glucose spike). You should always consult with your doctor if you want to supplement with bromelain, especially if you are on anticoagulation medications or antibiotics.
What about McDonald’s french fries? I have no idea where this idea came from, but eating McDonald’s french fries is a post embryo transfer ritual in the IVF community. It likely originated from salty foods being good to prevent OHSS post egg retrieval, but in my opinion there are way healthier salty foods to consume after an egg retrieval. I don’t want to ruin anyone’s fun tradition, but the fact is that McDonald’s french fries are filled with inflammatory vegetable oils, hydrogenated soybean oil, and other processed chemicals and flavors. Not to mention that white potatoes are fairly high glycemic and can spike your blood glucose and cause inflammation and hormone imbalance in the body. Is it enough to do any harm to your little embryo? Likely not. Is it going to help? Absolutely not.
At the end of the day, McDonald’s french fries and pineapple core can be added onto the list of conception-related myths.