If a woman is suffering from gestational diabetes, follow a balanced diet and avoid or limit certain food items. There isn’t a specific diet for everyone due to the difference in every woman’s body requirements and blood glucose levels.
What not to eat with gestational diabetes?
A woman with gestational diabetes can consume all food items in moderation. But it is best to avoid certain food items, such as high-sugar foods and drinks. Avoid food items that are processed and high in simple carbohydrates as it can raise your blood sugar levels more quickly.
Specifically, avoid food items that are sweets and food items with added sugars. Similarly, avoid honey, soda, fruit drinks, fatty and processed meats, and food items that contain saturated fat, such as poultry, high-fat dairy products, and alcohol. Limit sodium or salt intake. An ideal limit is less than 1,500 mg per day for most adults.
Why to avoid sweetened products with gestational diabetes?
It is generally recommended for mothers with gestational diabetes to avoid or limit sugar intake. It is done so as it causes the blood sugar levels to rise quickly after eating such foods. Sweets or other sugary products contain high amounts of added sugar and can worsen the effects of gestational diabetes. Also avoid even sugar-free options as they can spike blood sugar levels. It is so due to the presence of more carbs or calories, sometimes even more than standard ones.
Therefore, consume sugar or sweetened products with strict limitations or even eliminated (if possible) if you are suffering from gestational diabetes. Also, avoid drinks with added sugar as it doesn’t contain any nutritional value and elevates your blood sugar to rise very high. You can opt for peppermint or chamomile tea, as it is rich in antioxidants and doesn’t contain calories but have a sweet aftertaste that can help satisfy your sweet cravings. Keep in mind that balance is the key.
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