How to Succeed with a Gestational Diabetes Diet

Following a gestational diabetes diet is recommended for women who develop diabetes as a result of a pregnancy. Too much sugar in your bloodstream can be harmful to your baby in the womb causing them to grow abnormally large, have possible low glucose levels immediately following delivery and possibly contribute to causing breathing issues. Following these simple steps will help you succeed with your doctor approved diet for gestational diabetes.

Instructions

1. Monitor your food. Keep a food diary to keep track of your gestational diabetes diet. Note any foods on your approved list that seem to spike your sugar levels and report these to your dietitian. Choose to eat whole-grain starches and add more vegetables to your diet. Avoid sugary, nutritionally deficient foods such as cookies and candy. Buy a diabetic cookbook to help plan recipes recommended by the American Diabetes Association.

2. Eat at specific intervals. It is recommended that you eat small, equally proportioned meals every 2 ½ to 3 hours. This helps to keep your glucose levels from spiking upward or downward. Follow your gestational diabetes diet concerning what foods are appropriate. Make sure you are eating equal portions of high quality carbohydrates and lean proteins at every meal.

3. Get Exercise. Studies show that a short walk after a meal can significantly contribute to controlling your gestational diabetes blood sugar levels and weight gain during pregnancy. Take short walks after your meals. Keep yourself well hydrated and follow your doctor's recommendations about target heart range. If you control your gestational diabetes with insulin - take extra precautions during exercise to assure you avoid lowering your blood sugar to dangerously low levels.

4. Monitor your blood sugar levels. Keep track of your blood sugar levels using a blood glucose meter. Log your blood sugar levels on a spreadsheet to provide to your gestational diabetes dietitian. Take your blood glucose meter with you to your dietitian appointments. Talk with your health care provider about what your blood sugar target range should be. Ask questions about what to do if you fall outside your target range.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to keep yourself hydrated during exercise.

• Never begin a gestational diabetic diet on your own.

• Call a doctor immediately if you feel any cramping or have any spotting.