Food can directly affect blood sugar levels.
Because of this, a healthy, balanced diet can help control blood sugar levels and manage gestational diabetes.
These nutrients affect how glucose is digested in our bodies.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Read more about each macronutrient to learn how it affects blood sugar levels.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for your body.
They get digested and broken down into molecules called glucose, which is then sent to the bloodstream.
Carbohydrates, or glucose, are what increase blood sugar levels.
Carbohydrates are found in many starchy or sugary foods.
Fiber is also a carbohydrate.
However, much of the fiber we eat is not fully digested.
This means it doesnt raise blood sugar levels as much as other carbohydrates, making it a healthy choice.
Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans all contain fiber.
Underneath the total carbohydrates are dietary fiber, total sugars, and added sugars.
Look for foods with three or more grams of fiber and few or no added sugars.
Always base your decision on the total carbohydrate grams when choosing what to include in your meal plan.
Fat
Dietary fats are important for overall health.
Fats are needed tohelp absorb some nutrientsand produce hormones.Fats also tend to slow down digestion.
The types of fat you eat can make a difference in your health.
Saturated and trans fats are less healthy fats and should be limited as much as possible.
Unsaturated fats are healthier fats and should be included in your diet in moderation.
They can also be found in fish, seeds, and nuts.
Protein
Protein is needed to build and repair muscles and other tissues in the body.
Protein is found in both animal and plant-based foods.
Limiting or eliminating meat and dairy while choosing plant-based protein sources is an overall healthier diet.
Eating Plans
There is no single eating pattern that is best for gestational diabetes.
What works for one person might not work for another.
Work with your healthcare team to find what works best for you and your lifestyle.
Below are some healthy eating patterns that can help manage gestational diabetes.
The DASH diet is balanced and flexible to help you create a sustainable, healthy eating pattern for life.
It also emphasizes minimally processed, plant-based foods.
Instead of sweets, fruit is frequently eaten for dessert.
Diabetes Plate Method
Another way of eating to help manage gestational diabetes is called thediabetes plate method.
The diabetes plate method starts with plate size.
Then fill one quarter with protein foods like lean beef, poultry, fish, eggs, or legumes.
For your beverage, choose water or another zero-calorie drink.
Your body will respond to this consistency, helping your blood sugar levels be more stable in turn.
Find what works for you, and stick to it.
Carbohydrates should be included in each meal, but dont overdo it with them.
Depending on the individual, about one cup total of carbohydrate foods per meal is a reasonable portion.
This might be different based on your sex, activity level, and blood sugar levels.
Choose Whole Fruit Over Fruit Juice
Fruits contain natural sugars (carbohydrates).
Fruit juice counts as fruit, but it usually doesnt contain the fiber found in whole fruits.
Limit Added Sugars
Carbohydrates are important for our bodies to function properly.
Added sugars are sugars not naturally found in a food.
Even if a food or beverage is sweetened withhoneyor maple syrup, it is still considered added sugar.
If you have gestational diabetes, its best to limit these types of sugars as much as possible.
In addition to diet and exercise, some pregnant people will need medication to help manage their diabetes.
This might be an injectable medication, likeinsulin.
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