Include some meals while restricting others if you have diabetes and are pregnant to help control your blood sugar levels.

Every woman’s pregnancy is an exciting and stressful time since her body goes through so many changes. It is a good idea to get your body ready for this transformation. Preconception health emphasises what you can do to improve your chances of having a healthy baby before and after being pregnant. If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, this becomes even more crucial.

If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and are thinking about becoming pregnant, it’s crucial to speak with your doctor and a professional nutritionist. They may help you keep your blood sugar levels stable and create a diet plan that is nutrient-dense and suitable for your lifestyle. According to Dr. Preety Aggarwal, Medical Director for Gynaecology and Obstetrics at Motherhood Hospital, Gurgaon, planning your meals and eating at the same time each day helps avoid too high or too low blood sugar levels.

Why is it important for pregnant women to control their blood sugar levels?

High blood sugar levels during pregnancy planning and the first trimester increase the chance of miscarriage and congenital defects. High blood sugar levels in the second part of pregnancy and immediately before birth may cause the baby to grow and weigh more than usual, increasing the risk of complications during vaginal delivery and necessitating a caesarean section.

Pregnancy-induced hypertension and an excessive amount of amniotic fluid are more common in diabetes patients during the second trimester. When blood glucose levels are high in the late stages of pregnancy, the chance of stillbirth might also increase.

The best blood sugar levels may be maintained by using a comprehensive strategy. This would entail maintaining a healthy diet, controlling portion sizes, engaging in regular exercise, and making sure you take your vitamins and medications on schedule.

diet recommendations for expectant diabetics with types 1 or 2

If you have diabetes and are pregnant, eating some foods while limiting others can help you control your blood sugar levels. What to eat and what to forego is advised by Dr. Preety.

What should I eat?

Make sure you consume the proper ratio of nutrients by taking in;

• several different veggies
• whole grains
• seasonal fresh fruits
• reduced-fat dairy
• Lean fish and meat
• wholesome fats

However, you also need a plan for keeping your blood sugar under control throughout the day by eating small, frequent meals with appropriate amount sizes.

A good plan is to stick to a regular routine of three meals and three snacks. Make sure you eat plenty of veggies, one serving of protein, one dish of carbs, and both at every meal. Additionally, make sure you’re getting the vitamins and minerals every pregnant woman needs, including calcium, iron, folic acid, and vitamin D.

Skip this what?

• Avoid all forms of alcohol and cigarettes since they raise the risk of miscarriage and foetal alcohol syndrome, respectively.
• Avoid using raw or semi-cooked vegetables or meat.
• Never ingest unpasteurized juices, soft cheeses, or milk products.
• Don’t consume more caffeine than 200 milligrammes per day.
• Limit your consumption of desserts and sweets since they induce a surge in your blood sugar.
• Artificial sweeteners should be avoided during pregnancy.

ways to control blood sugar when pregnant

While some type 2 diabetics may manage their condition while pregnant by using oral diabetic medications, the majority must convert to insulin therapy at this time.

Most persons with type 1 or type 2 diabetes need more insulin during pregnancy, especially during the latter third of pregnancy, or from 26 to 40 weeks, since the body becomes more resistant to insulin during this time.

Maintaining control over blood glucose levels and keeping an eye on the health of both the mother and the unborn child require regular interaction with medical specialists. The doctor may need to check the patient’s insulin doses and blood glucose levels on a regular basis.

Exercise is also a fantastic strategy to manage blood sugar levels and weight. Most women who exercised before getting pregnant may continue to do so while pregnant, albeit more slowly. Exercise that is somewhat strenuous, such as brisk walking, is encouraged. After speaking with their doctor, those who have never exercised before might begin doing so while expecting. Exercise intensity, kind, and duration may need to be adjusted as the pregnancy develops or if problems occur.