Guidelines for a Healthy Gestational Diabetes Diet

By Marleny Anicama

A balanced nutrition is more than ever important throughout your pregnancy if you have developed gestational diabetes. First off, how does diabetes develop? Diabetes develops when your body isn't able to produce or use insulin, a hormone that allows cells to become sugar in your blood (glucose) into usable energy. When large amounts of glucose build up in your blood,
this means that your cells aren't getting the energy they need. High blood sugar can be harmful for you and your baby, thus it's important to control it.

The best way to keep your blood sugar levels under control is to follow a specific meal plan. It is strongly recommend that you see your doctor so you make a diet especially suited for you. This diet is made based on your weight, height, physical activity, and the needs of your growing baby, as well as your level of glucose intolerance.

Your dietitian will begin by calculating how many calories you will have to intake each day. You should also be instructed on how to choose portion sizes and which meals will give you the right balance of fat, protein and carbohydrates. Also, your dietitian will need to know what your eating habits are and make sure you are getting the right amount of vitamins and minerals.

There are tons of great guidelines on the internet for gestational diabetes diet. Here I have brought together those tips all in one article. However, always consult with your doctor or dietitian before making any changes to your diet.

Eat a variety of foods. Distribute calories and carbohydrates evenly during the day. Make sure all of your meals are balanced. The American Diabetes Association suggests that you eat three small to moderate sized meals and two to four snacks every day, including an after dinner snack.

Most importantly, do not skip meals. Your blood sugar will remain more stable if your food is distributed evenly throughout the day and consistently from day to day.

Milk is a healthy choice, but in moderation. Since milk is high in lactose, a simple sugar, drinking more than two or three glasses a day may do you more harm than good. Other sources of calcium are available. Try for example club soda with a squeeze of lemon or orange, or unsweetened decaffeinated iced tea.

Slowly increasing your activity level, exercise, is also a good way to keep your glucose levels normal. Always remember however to consult with your doctor to see how intense your exercise can be. Intense exercise can be harmful for gestational diabetes.

Keeping your gestational diabetes diet under control may seem difficult at first. But always remember to not look at it as a task but make it part of your lifestyle. Doing this will make it easier for you to follow your dietitians recommendations and furthermore taking care of your health and
your babies.

Marleny is dedicated to writing about Diabetes to help those finding information. More tips, recipes and information can be found at Diabetes Care.