Living a Healthy Life with Gestational Diabetes

Pregnant women who have high risk developing gestational diabetes are susceptible to acquiring type 2 diabetes in a later period. Gestational diabetes can be fatal to both mother and baby due to complications like premature childbirth and possible c-section brought about by having a large baby (problems relating to labor and delivery).

Diet Impacts Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Gestational Diabetes 

Women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy have a significant risk of getting type 2 diabetes either soon after giving birth or within the next ten or more years. Results of a new study appearing in the Archives of Internal Medicine reveal that women can greatly reduce that risk by eating a healthy diet, and some diet options are better than others.

http://www.emaxhealth.com/1275/diet-impacts-type-2-diabetes-risk-gestational-diabetes

Diabetes acquired during pregnancy is a serious case. With this being stretched out, extra care should be provided during the course of pregnancy. This includes proper intake of healthy food as well as execution of appropriate exercises. By doing this, it will help control the blood sugar level.

Gestational Diabetes Diet Information 

The cornerstone of the gestational diabetes diet is healthy food choices. Be sure to drink at least 64 ounces of water daily and limit carbohydrates at breakfast, when insulin resistance is greatest. Limit intake of high-sugar or high-fat foods like fruits, sweets, and fast food. Eat at least three small meals and two snacks throughout the day, and never skip a meal, as this can affect insulin levels. Regular exercise is also an important part of the gestational diabetic diet.

A gestational diabetes diet depends on balance for success:

Carbohydrates: Carbs should account for less than 50% of the day’s calories. Stick to whole grains like brown rice or whole wheat bread, as they take longer to digest.
 
Vegetables and leafy greens: Down 3-5 servings a day of cooked or raw veggies or vegetable juice. Leafy greens are also high in iron, and are a great choice for pregnant women.
 
Fruit: Choose 2-4 servings of fruits – defined as one medium fruit, 1/2 cup chopped, or 3/4 cups of juice – each day. Fresh fruits are best, and eating a piece of fruit is preferable to drinking juice.
 
Dairy: Low-fat or nonfat dairy products are full of protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and other nutrients. Eat 4 servings of dairy everyday.

Protein: Choose 2-3 daily servings of lean sources of protein, including chicken breast, turkey breast, fish, eggs or beans, to feel full and fuel the body.

http://diabetesdiet-md.com/2012/09/gestational-diabetes-diet/

Seeking advice from medical professionals is still a priority before engaging in any diet or exercise for women who have gestational diabetes. With appropriate nutrition mothers and babies, controlling blood sugar is going to be easier. It does not have to be hard for gestational diabetic mothers. Expecting moms can live a life without having to take insulin by practicing healthy living.

By Keith Weller, USDA ARS [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

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