WHAT IS IT?
Gestational diabetes is one of the most common health issues that occur during pregnancy (gestation). Like other types of diabetes, gestational diabetes affects how your cells use sugar (glucose). Blood sugar that is not well controlled in a woman with gestational diabetes can lead to problems for the pregnant woman and the baby. About 7 to 20% of women develop this type of diabetes when they are pregnant. However, it most often disappears after delivery.
AM I AT A RISK?
Yes, you are if you have any of the following:
- Obesity or overweight at the time of conception, so lose some Kilos if you overweigh.
- A history of gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
- Previous delivery of an infant with a high birth weight (over 9 pounds)
- Family history of diabetes
- A personal history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Pre-diabetic
DIET GUIDE
- Follow a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle (rest, good sleep cycle and physical activity) is enough to balance diabetes. Take proper guidance and planned diet.
- Eating variety and small frequent meals.
- It is advised to eat complex carbohydrates that contain fiber.
- High-fiber foods and green vegetables, as well as whole-grain products, are effective in keeping blood sugar levels stable. Skipping meals is dangerous because this leads to undesirable fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
- Fruits consumption should be limited at a time to maintain proper glucose le
- Manage stress levels, meditation, and slight walking is good for you.
HOW IT’ AFFECTS BABY?
- Since the baby is getting more energy than it needs to grow and develop, the extra energy is stored as fat. This can lead to macrosomia or a “fat” baby.
- New-born May suffer from jaundice
- Pre-term or premature birth
- Breathing problems in new-born
- Low blood sugar at the time of birth.
DO’S AND DONT’S
- Restrict the intake of simple carbs like raw sugar, corn syrup, fruit juice concentrate, baked foods, and cereals.
- Add raw veggies or salad in your diet.
- Add soup as a mid-evening snack.
- Take 2 fruits daily (but, avoid high sugary fruits).
- Avoid juices completely.
- Do not skip breakfast.
- Avoid processed and packed foods.
- Avoid artificial sweeteners.
- Avoid junk foods.
- Avoid confectionery and bakery products.
- Avoid cold drinks, soda.
- Say no to Alcohol.
- Limit oil intake. (500ml/month).
- Avoid red meat.
FOOD ITEMS YOU CAN EASILY CONSUME
- Fresh or frozen vegetables
- Fresh or frozen berries. Make berry smoothie with yogurt and honey.
- Eggs or egg whites
- Oats
- Skinless chicken breasts
- Baked fish
- Steamed vegetables
- Air-popped popcorn
- Greek yogurt. Prefer unsweetened
