How to Follow a Gestational Diabetes Diet

Many pregnant women experience gestational diabetes. This condition, while not fun and certainly a health threat, can be easily controlled with the right diet and care from your doctor.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Prenatal vitamins
• Plenty of fruits and vegetables
• Protein
• Whole grains

1. If you haven't already done so, consult your doctor to find out the right diet for your gestational diabetes. This article gives general guidelines - see your doctor for specifics.

2. Don't skip meals, and eat healthy snacks between meals. Skipping meals or waiting too long before eating can cause your blood sugar levels to plummet or skyrocket.

3. Take your prenatal vitamins. The right vitamins and minerals are essential for a healthy pregnancy.

4. Eat a variety of vegetables. Try to eat vegetables of different colors - green, white, red, and orange.

5. Eat a variety of fruits in moderation. Fruits are good for you as long as you don't overdo it. Fruits contain sugar, and sugars need to be kept to a minimum with gestational diabetes.

6. Get plenty of protein in your diet. This can include meats such as turkey, chicken, fish, and beef. You can also eat eggs and cottage cheese to get some protein in.

7. Eat whole grains and foods full of fiber. If you eat bread, eat whole wheat. You can also get fiber from beans and legumes.

8. Eat a combination of all of the above food groups at each meal.

9. Keep your intake of sugary foods to a minimum.

10. Adding light exercise to your daily routine can also help keep your blood sugar regulated.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to discuss your dietary needs with your doctor.
• Remember to take it one day at a time. If you have a bad food day, just do better the next day.
• Make sure to keep track of your blood sugar levels and let your doctor know if they reach unhealthy levels.

[iamageniuster]

on 10/23/2008 Great article. 5 stars indeed.