Diet Chart For gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes which occurs mostly during pregnancy, generally between 24-28 months. In this case, glucose level increases in the blood. Insulin secreted by pancreas fails to combat the increasing level of glucose in this case. During this period, the hormonal level keeps on changing and care should be taken while consuming meals.

To maintain normal glucose and nutrition level both in the body of mother and child, one should maintain a proper gestational diabetes diet:

1. Meals should be consumed by breaking it in parts. Sugary food, syrup, honey and other simple carbohydrates should be avoided as it breaks down and mixes in the bloodstream increasing the risk.
2. Complex carbohydrates such as pasta, rice, cereals should be consumed in limited amount.
3. Fibers can be incorporated into meals which provide better digestion and decreases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
4. Fruits consumption should be limited at a time to maintain proper glucose level.

Along with proper diet, as prescribed by the doctor, regular exercise is mandatory for proper health of mother and child. Eventually, after delivery of a child, gestational diabetes goes off.

1. Blood sugar levels are raised when people eat sugary foods, particularly those that are refined and processed. Women with gestational diabetes are advised to avoid or limit sugary foods, as much as possible. Sugary foods to avoid include: cakes, biscuits, sweets, puddings, soda, fruit juice with added sugar etc.,
2. Starchy foods are high in carbohydrates and have a bigger impact on our blood sugar, so it is important to eat them only in small portions. Some very starchy foods are best avoided or limited. These include: white potatoes, white bread, white rice, white pasta etc.,
3. Some foods are not obviously sources of sugar or carbohydrate, but they may still contain unhealthful levels of both of these food types. Examples of these include: highly processed foods, some condiments, dressings and ketchup, fast foods, alcohol, carbonated beverages etc.,
4. Milk and fruits contain natural sugars and can be enjoyed in moderation.

Do's & Don'ts:

1. Eat small and frequent meals.
2. Add small portions of snacks in between the major meals.
3. Add post dinner or Bedtime milk.
4. Restrict the intake of simple carbs like raw sugar, corn syrup, fruit juice concentrate, baked foods, and cereals.
5. Add raw veggies or salad in your diet.
6. Add soup as a mid-evening snack.
7. Take 2 fruits daily (but, avoid high sugary fruits).
8. Avoid juices completely.
9. Do not skip breakfast.
10. Avoid sweets.
11. Avoid processed and packed foods.
12. Avoid desserts.
13. Avoid artificial sweeteners.
14. Avoid junk foods.
15. Avoid confectionary and bakery products.
16. Avoid cold drinks, soda.
17. Say no to Alcohol.
18. Limit oil intake. (500ml/month).
19. Avoid fish that are high in mercury.
20. Avoid red meat.

1. Fresh or frozen vegetables
2. Eggs or egg whites
3. Steel-cut oatmeal topped with berries
4. Fresh fruit
5. Skinless chicken breasts
6. Baked fish
7. Steamed vegetables
8. Air-popped popcorn
9. Unsweetened Greek yogurt