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Healthy Diet During Pregnancy A form of diabetes that affects pregnant women is referred to as gestational diabetes. It is more common in the second trimester of pregnancy. Receptivity to insulin reduces due to the hormones produced during pregnancy. Inability to utilise insulin, due to insulin resistance causes gestational diabetes. In uncontrolled situations, gestational diabetes leads to an array of complications in the mother and the growing foetus. Glucose has the ability to pass through the placenta, whereas insulin fails to pass through. This increases the baby's glucose levels. The child becomes a fat baby and this situation is referred to as Macrosomia. The child finds it difficult to breathe. More insulin is produced to combat the situation.
Eating a balanced diet is required. Vegetables and fruits are increased, as they increase the dietary fibre, in addition to whole grains and cereals. Increase in dietary fibre also prevents constipation, which is common in pregnancy. Foods and beverages with molasses, jams, jellies, sugar, molasses and sugar are completely abstained from. Carbonated drinks are not permitted. Avoid skipping meals. A snack at bedtime or midnight helps as the possibility of hypoglycaemia is more. Eating once in three hours is helpful, instead of three large meals. Fasting for religious reasons is not permitted.
Exercise, such as brisk walking helps in keeping the sugar levels at bay. It also helps in easy delivery, devoid of complications. Proper planning of diet is vital, especially when on insulin. Exchange system is of great help, as it provides variety in the foods, keeping in mind the nutritive value. Starchy tubers are avoided. Fruits such as jackfruit, mangoes, grapes and bananas are not recommended. High fat foods and processed foods are avoided. Stability in body weight is essential. Animal foods, such as fish, egg, poultry devoid of skin and lean meats are considered.
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