Diabetes Pregnancy Diet 

Increased blood glucose levels in pregnancy or diabetes in pregnancy is referred to as gestational diabetes.



It is generally seen to spurt during pregnancy and vanish after the birth of the child. The risk of recurrence of diabetes is high in later life. Certain hormones associated with pregnancy also interrupt the insulin secretion or receptivity of the body to insulin. Insulin resistance results in non usage of insulin, thereby resulting in gestational diabetes.

A healthy and balanced diet is important.



Regular exercise in conjunction with diet helps in overcoming the situation in a rapid manner. Maintenance of body weight is crucial. Children of diabetic mothers are at high risk for diabetes, obesity and glucose intolerance. Carbohydrate counting plays a vital role in control of blood sugar during pregnancy. About 45 to 60 per cent of calories are contributed by carbohydrates.



Twenty to thirty per cent of calories are derived from fats and 15 to 25 per cent from proteins.

Diabetes in pregnancy results in the leakage of excess glucose into the baby, thereby increasing the insulin secretion. Insulin increase causes storage of extra energy as fat. This causes 'fat baby' or 'macrosomia'. Breathing difficulty is one of the primary problems. Hypoglycaemia is yet another complication, as insulin secretion is excess. Respiratory distress syndrome and jaundice are also common.

Small and frequent meals as a part of a diabetic pregnancy diet, helps in controlling the blood glucose in pregnancy. This includes three meals and two or three snacks. Foods with added sugar, such as honey, molasses, jellies, jams, corn syrup and molasses are avoided.

Avoid feasting and fasting in a diabetes pregnancy diet. Eat at the right time everyday. Sticking to the timings are important. A snack prior to bed helps in preventing hypoglycaemia or low blood sugar levels. Avoid overeating. Foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, cereals, legumes and pulses aid in preventing constipation, a common problem associated with pregnancy.



Raw fruits and fresh vegetables provide phytonutrients and antioxidants.

Skimmed milk and low fat dairy products are preferred for whole milk and high fat dairy products. Saturated fats are completely avoided, namely margarine, clarified butter and butter. Liquid oils should replace solid fats. Olive oil, canola oil, sunflower and safflower oil prove beneficial. Fried foods and junk are abstained from, as it might increase the body weight. Processed foods are not considered. Fresh and wholesome foods are preferred in a diabetic pregnancy diet. Strict adherence of diet and exercise helps in overcoming the disorder with no damage to the child and the mother.