During pregnancy, if the blood sugars are higher than the normal levels, chances are, the would-be mother has gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is caused by interference of the placental hormones on the pancreas, resulting in non-secretion of insulin. Doctors call this as the “contra-insulin” effect and it occurs between the 5th to 6 month of pregnancy lasting until childbirth. The symptoms for diabetes, gestational and the type 2 kind are very similar. There is an increased thirst, frequent urination, excessive hunger, fatigue, weight loss and irritability. In dire cases where the disease goes untreated, it would result to abnormal weight loss and blurred vision. Hence the importance of pregnant mothers to adhere to a gestational diabetes diet.
The initial thing that should be crossed out of the gestational diabetes diet is carbohydrate. When one talks about refined carbohydrates, one is referring to sugar, white flour, regular pasta and white rice. Among other food items to avoid, this also includes cookies, cakes, soft drinks, coffee, tortillas, crackers and bread. Constant consumption of the items mentioned will lead to a sudden increase in blood sugar level. There are a lot of complications that may occur, from pre-eclampsia to the possibility of having a big baby that would may lead to a caesarian operation.
A healthy gestational diabetes diet includes plenty of whole grains and other natural carbohydrates. Brown rice, whole wheat bread, oatmeal, beans, fruits and vegetables are examples of natural carbohydrates. One should take this in moderation and in consultation with a physician or a nutritionist. They would compute for the number of servings the diabetic should take basing it on the diabetic’s weight and other factors.
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Now that one has gainful knowledge on what to consume and what to avoid, then it’s time to discuss the daily gestational diabetes diet. Pregnant women should consume the following everyday, 6 to 10 servings of bread and grains, 2 to 3 servings of fruit, 4 or more servings of vegetables, 3 to 4 servings of dairy products and 3 servings of meat or other proteins such as fish, nuts and eggs.
If one has no alternative to refined sugar, then try taking it in small amounts. Try spreading out the meals to 5 to 6 times a day so the blood glucose level will be maintained.
