Gestational Diabetes is high blood sugar (glucose) that starts during pregnancy. According to a famous obstetrician in Gurgaon, eating a balanced, healthy diet can help you manage gestational diabetes. These diet recommendations are for women with gestational diabetes who do NOT take insulin.
Goals of diabetes management:
- Provide a nutritionally sound meal
- Attain and maintain blood glucose levels in the normal range as far as possible
- To attain and maintain a desirable weight
- To maintain healthy levels of blood fat i.e. cholesterol and triglycerides
- To reduce their risk of gestational diabetes in future pregnancies and the risk of getting type 2 diabetes later in life.
Healthy eating:
- 60% of the calories should come from carbohydrates
- 15%-20% from protein
- 20% -30% from fats
- Food should be distributed equally throughout the day
- Choose foods from all food groups in all major meals
- Choose foods high in fiber as it slows digestion and gives a feeling of satiety
- Total fat and saturated fat should be limited. Some amount of fat is essential for important body functions and it also helps slow gastric emptying
- Whole grains should be chosen over refined cereals like sooji, sago, white bread, maida
- Whole days have a very low GI index and should be included daily
Exercise:
- Exercise helps diabetics lower blood glucose
- It helps the body use insulin better
- Exercising helps one control weight, develop lean muscle and reduce body fat
- Maintain an adequate level of physical activity to achieve fitness and a negative energy balance
- 30 to 45 minutes of brisk walk daily is recommended
The dos and don’ts of a healthy diet plan:
- Eat small nourishing main meals three times a day, starting with breakfast
- If you suffer from morning sickness, have a slice of wholegrain toast or some whole-grain cereal before you get out of bed in the morning
- Eat a nourishing snack, mid-morning and mid-afternoon, between meals
- Choose foods high in fiber such as fresh fruits and vegetables and wholegrain cereals, pasta and bread for meals and snacks
- Avoid drinks high in caffeine (e.g. coffee and cola)
- Avoid alcohol while pregnant (especially in the first trimester)
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day
If you combine a healthy gestational diabetes diet plan with regular exercise, you may be able to limit the effects of gestational diabetes and decrease your risk (20% to 50%) of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. That according to child specialists in Gurgaon is an important lifestyle change for both your health and the health of your growing family.
Consult Dr. Astha Dayal, an expert obstetrician-gynecologist at the CK Birla Hospital in Gurgaon to learn more about this condition and possible treatment. For an appointment click here!