Will I have Gestational Diabetes Post Pregnancy?

The day you learn you are pregnant is the most magical day. Suddenly there is new life. You want to do everything you can to ensure your developing baby gets all his nutritional needs right from the beginning.

So, you do everything right: you eat the right foods, take your supplements, keep all doctor visits, exercise regularly, and keep your stress levels low. This is why it is even harder to hear that you have developed gestational diabetes during your pregnancy. Don’t feel daunted by this news. Many women, who develop this condition, do not continue to have diabetes mellitus after the baby is born. However, it is very important that during your pregnancy you continue to keep stress levels low, exercise and take your supplements. Your diet will probably need to change.

Keeping blood sugars low is a matter of being mindful about what foods you are eating. Foods high in fat and carbohydrates should no longer be consumed. Fruits, vegetables and complex carbohydrates with a high-fiber content can be consumed as they digest slowly and keep blood sugars at a consistent level. These include whole wheat breads, pasta and rice. Your diet should be high in protein including lean meats, fish, eggs, beans and peanut butter. Obviously foods high in sugar, such as desserts, pastries or soft drinks should be avoided at all times.

Skipping a meal is never a good idea since as a pregnant woman, you need lots of energy and your baby needs the nutrition. You also run the risk of lowering your blood sugar too much. You should plan on eating three meals per day with two snacks in between to help keep blood sugars under control. A pregnant women typically needs to consume about 300 more calories than she did when she was not pregnant. These calories need to include calcium, iron and plenty of vitamins and minerals.

It might be a good idea to consult a nutritionist on what foods are the best to maintain your blood sugar levels. Keep your doctor visits to have your blood glucose levels tested and to continue on the right path for the healthy development of your baby.

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