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Gestational Diabetes: Foods You Must Avoid

By Dhwani Jerajani +2 more

When one is pregnant, the way the body uses insulin changes. Insulin is needed to break down blood glucose into energy. Gestational diabetes happens only during pregnancy. It is possible to develop gestational diabetes in the first pregnancy or to find out about it because one already has diabetes that hasn’t been detected before.

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The body becomes slightly resistant to insulin to provide the foetus with more glucose. In some cases, the body becomes unresponsive to it or produces it in negligible quantities. When this happens, it is known as Gestational Diabetes.

Since one is pregnant but also suffering from this issue, a healthy diet takes on a whole new meaning. Take a look at the foods you must avoid during gestational diabetes.

1. Junk food

Women who are pregnant must take care to avoid junk food in all its forms. So turn away from the burgers, pizzas and different kinds of pasta. They offer no nutritional value and add to the calories. Since most of them are heavy on chemicals and artificial elements, they are harmful to the baby’s health. Stock up on healthy food options like yoghurt, tofu, eggs, fish, leafy greens, whole grains and nuts to balance your diet.

2. Alcohol

Alcohol is a strict no-no for all would-be mothers. Those who have gestational diabetes must avoid even that tempting glass of wine. Alcohol is a known culprit for causing congenital disabilities in unborn babies so avoid it at all costs.

3. Calorie High Carbs

Refined food is very calorie-dense. It provides the calories without offering any fibre or nutrition in turn leading to distressing weight gain. White bread is a major culprit as are most baked goods unless those that are made with whole wheat. Weight has to stay in check to keep gestational diabetes manageable.

4. Colas

The sugary drinks will pile up the kilos without any of them being used for the unborn child. Packaged juices, energy drinks and sweetened beverages should also be avoided at all costs. Instead, go for a bowl of fruits or a salad.

5. Foods Labelled ‘Diabetic-Friendly’

Anything that sells itself as diabetic-friendly or good for diabetics must be avoided. They have a comparable amount of calories and fat and have a negative impact on blood glucose. Stick to regular food. If one is having severe cravings, eat food that you would generally treat yourself with.

So what can you eat?

The list of things to avoid would seem daunting, but there are many food options that you can incorporate into your diet to help yourself and the baby. Here are some ideas.

  • Fresh vegetables are good for a pregnant woman and the baby. They can be chopped and frozen.
  • Eggs, in any form, are what the doctor recommends.
  • Oatmeal is your friend.
  • Fresh fruit, preferably in its natural form and not had as a juice.
  • Fish is also a good alternative.
  • Yoghurt provides one with good probiotic bacteria and has very few calories.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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