Gestational Diabetes Diet   

Gestational Diabetes is a problem for many women during their pregnancy.  Fear and concern of what to do is compounded double by the fact that you have take into account the baby.  For this reason, many health professionals advocate the use of a gestational diabetes diet to help in controlling gestational diabetes.  With this thought in mind, we have put together some information and tips on what women can do to regulate their diabetes while pregnantr: 

1.  The diet should provide the right amount of nutrition for the baby and mother. 

For a women suffering with gestational diabetes, it is important that the diet of a gestational diabetes woman is specifically tailored to provide adequate nutrition to the mother and the growing fetus.   A gestational diabetes diet must include a right proportion of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and other essential components. Ensure that the diet provides about 300-400 calories per day during the second and third trimester with 45-55% of energy obtained from carbohydrates, 15-25% from proteins and the rest from fats.  

2.  Diets should be full of quality foods. 

One must remember to consume foods rich in fiber such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads, cooked dried beans, cereals and sprouts.  Fiber causes the sustained release of glucose into the blood and doesn’t require high quantities of insulin for getting metabolized.   

3.  Meals should be scattered throughout the day to get the maximum benefits. 

Rather than consuming everything at one time, break the meal into 2 to 3 parts and consume at equal intervals.  This will put less stress on your digestive system and is a good idea for everyone; however, it is even better for those with diabetes while pregnant  

4.  Snaking before bed can be helpful. 

Eat some healthy snacks before going to bed so as to prevent any hypoglycemic condition.  This is a great way of sustaining yourself through your sleep and will help stave off diabetes symptoms during the night.   

5.  Begin to periodically monitor the results of your diet. 

You should begin to consult your dietician throughout your pregnancy to get your gestational diabetes diet reviewed so as to ensure that your blood glucose levels remains between 60-120mg/dL. 

By keeping these tips in mind, you will be well on your way to having a solid Gestational Diabetes Diet.  In addition, you can rest easier knowing you are taking steps to controlling Gestational Diabetes and ridding yourself of some future flare ups of its symptoms.