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During pregnancy, if the blood sugars are higher than the normal levels, chances are, the would-be mother has gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes occurs when the there is an interference of insulin secretion from the pancreas by the placental hormones. This is the “contra-insulin” effect that happens during the 20th to 24th week of pregnancy and ends until childbirth. Type 2 diabetics and pregnant women with gestational diabetes shares the same symptoms. There is an increased thirst, frequent urination, excessive hunger, fatigue, weight loss and irritability. In extreme cases where the disease is untreated, there is an abnormal weight loss and blurred vision. This is the reason that pregnant mothers should turn to a strict regimen of gestational diabetes diet.

The initial thing that should be crossed out of the gestational diabetes diet is carbohydrate. Refined carbohydrates refer to sugar, white flour, regular pasta and white rice. Among other food items to avoid, this also includes cookies, cakes, soft drinks, coffee, tortillas, crackers and bread. Constant consumption of the items mentioned will lead to a sudden increase in blood sugar level. With elevated blood sugar levels, complications like pre-eclampsia and having a big baby is a big possibility.

Gestational diabetes diet focuses mainly on whole grains and natural carbohydrates. Natural carbohydrates refer to brown rice, whole wheat bread, oatmeal, beans, fruits and vegetables. It is better to talk to nutritionists and physicians when one is about to go on a gestational diabetes diet. They would compute for the number of servings the diabetic should take basing it on the diabetic’s weight and other factors.

After deciphering what is allowed and what should be avoided, it is time to tackle the daily gestational diabetes diet. Pregnant women should eat the following daily, six to ten servings of breads and grains, two to three servings of fruit, four or more servings of vegetables, three to four servings of dairy products and three servings of meat or other proteins such as fish, nuts and eggs.

If one has no alternative to refined sugar, then try taking it in small amounts. It is better to spread out the meals over the course of the day, eating around five to six times will surely keep the blood sugar levels even.

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