Gestational diabetes is diabetes that is diagnosed during pregnancy. This type of diabetes usually develops during the second or third trimester. Gestational diabetes resolves by itself after the birth of the baby. However, if not managed, it can lead to health complications in the mother as well as a developing foetus. Blood sugar levels become high, which needs to be managed by gestational diabetes diet, exercise, medication, and regular monitoring of the blood sugar levels.
Dietary Recommendations for Gestational Diabetes
Dietary modifications are crucial for keeping blood sugar levels normal and managing gestational diabetes. Certain food types need to be avoided.
- Monitoring the intake of carbohydrates- Carbohydrates convert into sugar and provide instant energy. Carbohydrates are important, but it is also important to regulate blood sugar levels. The total amount of carbohydrates per serving can be calculated using food labels, and the diet can be adjusted accordingly.
Foods that contain a higher amount of carbohydrate and need to be controlled are listed below:
- Milk and yoghurt
- Rice, grains, pasta, and cereals
- Breads, rolls, and tortillas
- Dried beans, lentils, split peas,
- Vegetables like potatoes
- Corn, yams, winter squash, and peas
- Sweet desserts
- Honey, sugar,
<h3>Gestational diabetes meal plan:
It is important to consult a certified dietician before making a gestational diet plan. A dietician can calculate the amount of carbohydrates, protein, and fat and prepare a gestational diet plan according to the need. Dietary recommendations to maintain blood sugar levels are:
- It is good to distribute the total food intake into three meals and two to three snacks.
- Eat only a reasonable amount of starch.
- At one time, only drink one cup of milk.
- Limit the intake of fruit.
<h3>Foods to avoid with gestational diabetes:
- Fruit juices
- Sweet desserts: cakes, pastries, cookies, and candies
It is always good to maintain a diary to record the carbohydrate intake. For accurate food calculations, a weighing machine or measuring cups can be used.
<h2>Conclusion
Gestational diabetes diet modifications, with a focus on monitoring carbohydrate intake, are crucial for the management of this condition. A personalised diet plan created by a certified dietitian according to individual needs is advisable. Keeping a food diary and using measuring tools can aid in accurate carbohydrate tracking. Many health insurance plans include wellness benefits, such as access to nutritional counselling and diabetes education programs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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