Pregnancy is a wonderful experience and an important phase in a woman's life. Most of the women pamper themselves by eating to their desire. But for some women, the same phase changes into choosing the healthiest foods as they get diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Keep yourself calm, inculcate healthy changes and enjoy your eating during pregnancy. Gestational

What is GDM? (Gestational Diabetes Mellitus)

Gestational diabetes mellitus is high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth. It can occur at any stage of pregnancy, but is more common in the second half. It occurs if your body cannot produce enough insulin,to meet the extra needs during pregnancy, causing blood sugar levels after eating to be extremely higher than normal.

Golden rules for eating healthy during pregnancy
  • Eat small frequent meals (3 main meals and 2-3 intermediary snacks)
  • Never ever give up carbs or skip meals.
  • Go crazy on colourful veggies.
  • Choose power packed proteins
  • Make way for healthy fats.
  • Treat yourself with fruits.
  • Eat unsweetened yoghurt to increase gut friendly bacteria.
  • Incorporate complex carbohydrates
  • Drink water (8-10 glasses)
  • Grab some nuts, salads, and sprouts of your choice.
Low Calorie Snacking Ideas
  • Veggie slices (carrot, cucumber, tomato) with yogurt dip
  • Sprouted Moong salad with, tomatoes, cucumber and lemon juice
  • Whole wheat crackers with yogurt dips or avocado dip
  • Yogurt with strawberry toppings, or a small glass of milk
  • Brown bread toast with paneer fillings
  • Ragi roti with mint chutney
  • Multigrain veg dosa
  • Vegetable omelette
Ways to fight cravings
  • Don’t stay away from carbs; they boost energy instantly.
  • Pick up a glass of water when cravings hits. False hunger pangs subside with a glass of water.
  • Add on healthy proteins to your diet or snack.
Keep active
  • Physical activity is an essential part of any healthy pregnancy.
  • Keeping yourself active helps to control blood glucose levels, and manage gestational diabetes efficiently.
  • Zero in for 30-45 minutes of physical activity a day. A short walk for 15 minutes post meals will help to control the postprandial spiking, which a a very high random blood sugar value after consuming a meal.
  • Ask your doctor, physiotherapist for safe exercises. Also, know when to refrain from exercising.