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Gestational Diabetes Diet Plan Gestational diabetes mellitus is any degree of glucose intolerance with onset or first recognition during pregnancy. This condition occurs in 4% of all pregnancies but disappears when the pregnancy is over. At this point insulin antagonist hormones increase and insulin resistance normally occurs. Fetal morbidity may be increased and hence it is important to identify this condition by screening tests between 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy.
During pregnancy extra calories needs to be consumed especially during the second and third trimesters. This will increase the amount of carbohydrates also. Hence it is important to understand the type of carbohydrates in the diet. Extra protein is also recommended during pregnancy to help the baby to grow.
Certain guidelines that are useful for planning diet plan during gestational diabetes are:
- Increase the frequency of the diet in the whole day. Instead of consuming bulk diet for only 2 to 3 times a day increase the intake unto 5 to 6 times a day consisting of 3 main meals and 2 to 3 snacks.
- Have a carbohydrate food before going to bed to avoid low sugar incidence in the night.
- Consult your doctor immediately if you are suffering from weakness, giddiness or low sugar problems.
- Have whole foods and natural foods instead of simple sugary foods.
- Regular testing of blood sugar, cholesterol and lipid levels are necessary.
- Consult the doctor for exercises that can be done during pregnancy.
- Eat at the same time of the day everyday and do not skip a meal.
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