Diabetes gestational diet is a special eating plan designed to help women with gestational diabetes maintain healthy blood sugar levels during their pregnancy, thus decreasing the risk of pregnancy complications.
Your doctor may prescribe medication such as insulin or metformin to help keep your blood sugar levels within healthy limits. However, if you’re still having difficulty managing your diabetes, a dietitian can work with you to create a diet that works for both of you.
Proteins
Proteins are essential in a balanced diet and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Since proteins breakdown more slowly than carbohydrates do, they don’t cause a sudden spike in your sugar levels like carbohydrates do.
Women living with diabetes may need to increase their protein intake from sources such as meat, poultry, eggs, cheese and fish. She should ensure that she gets sufficient amounts of this essential nutrient throughout all of her meals and snacks throughout the day.
Studies have reported that a higher total fat intake during the year before and during pregnancy increased the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), but this association was attenuated when animal protein intakes were taken into account.
Low glycaemic foods
Gestational diabetes occurs when pregnancy hormones make the body resistant to insulin, the hormone responsible for using sugar from the bloodstream as energy. This can lead to high blood glucose levels that are detrimental to both mother and unborn child alike.
According to Asterino-McGeean, in order to regulate your blood sugar, you should eat foods low in carbohydrates and high in fiber. This means incorporating lots of fresh produce like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein sources into meals.
When planning your meal, the glycemic index (GI) is an important factor to consider. This number indicates how quickly certain foods raise your blood sugar after consumption. Foods with higher GIs will cause your sugar level to rise faster than those with lower GIs.
Fresh fruits
Fresh fruits are an integral part of a diabetes gestational diet. Their high fiber content helps slow digestion and control blood sugar levels.
Fruit also provides healthy fats that can help to regulate glucose levels. They can be added to meals or enjoyed on its own as a snack.
Reduce your consumption of sugary foods and drinks such as ice cream, chocolate and soft drinks. Instead, incorporate whole grains into snacks and meals to provide carbohydrates, protein and fiber.
Eating small portions of carbohydrates throughout the day, such as cereals, rice, noodles, potatoes, pasta, bread and milk will help ensure a healthy pregnancy and optimal birth weight for your baby. These should be spread out over multiple meals to maximize hydration during pregnancy.
Vegetables
Vegetables are an integral part of the diabetes gestation diet, as they help regulate blood sugar levels. Being low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, vegetables slow down carbohydrate absorption into your system.
Fruit and vegetables are also an excellent source of protein. Eating enough protein can help regulate your blood sugar levels and reduce the need for additional insulin treatments.
Eating a variety of vegetables is important for your health, as they contain various essential nutrients. When selecting vegetables to consume, opt for fresh produce without added salt, fat or sauces.
Healthy fats
Eating a nutritious diet that includes plenty of fresh produce like fruits and vegetables as well as non-starchy items can help regulate your glucose levels. Furthermore, it will give you the energy and essential nutrients for pregnancy.
Carbohydrates are the main source of sugar in your diet, so it’s essential to eat them in moderation at each meal. Starchy carbohydrates like potatoes, pasta, rice and bread should be limited in order to ensure your blood sugar stays within healthy limits.
Some women with gestational diabetes find that eating a higher-fat diet, like one rich in omega-3 fatty acids found in fish-based salad, helps slow carbohydrate absorption from the body. However, it’s essential not to overindulge on fat as too much may cause spikes in your blood sugar levels.