As a nutritionist, my primary objective has always been supporting my clients in achieving their best health outcomes. And also, as a mom, I understand the rollercoaster of emotions a woman goes through during pregnancy. It is the most unpredictable yet the most enjoyable phase in a woman’s life, but owing to lifestyle changes, late pregnancies, and other factors, most pregnant women are being diagnosed with elevated levels of blood sugar.
Medically known as Gestational Diabetes Mellitus or GDM, it can cause various complications, including preeclampsia, premature birth, polyhydramnios, hypoglycemia, vision-related issues, large babies, and even stillbirth. Uncontrolled blood sugars among pregnant women in India is a major cause of concern among doctors, and I have always been vocal about keeping blood glucose under control during pregnancy and otherwise.
Thanks to frequent ‘baashan’ among friends and family gatherings, one of my pregnant friends reached out to me soon after getting diagnosed with GDM. She was in her 16th week of pregnancy, and this unexpected, unpleasant revelation about her health caused a lot of panic to her. As a nutritionist, I knew what was in store for the next few months.
First things first, I sat down with her to analyse her eating pattern, lifestyle habits, navigating the complexities of pregnancy, and the eating behaviour that often gets triggered by mood swings and tantrums.
To Manage Diabetes And Optimise Overall Health Buy From Our Extensive Range of Diabetes Essentials Today!
And as they say, all things end well. With regular monitoring of her blood sugar levels, adjusting the diet plans, walking, and mild exercises, she delivered a healthy baby at 38 weeks. The parents and family are delighted, and so am I. And here is how we did it!
Also Read: Gestational Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
The Initial Diagnosis and Planning Phase
When my friend first confirmed her diagnosis of GDM, she was shattered and scared. The risks associated with GDM, including potential complications for both the mother and the baby, can be daunting. My first step was reassuring her that we could keep her and her baby healthy with careful management.
We began by developing a comprehensive meal plan tailored to her specific needs. The focus was balancing carbohydrates with proteins and fats to maintain stable blood sugar levels. We incorporated plenty of fiber-rich vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while minimizing simple sugars and refined carbs. This plan was not just about restriction but empowering her to make the right food choices to nourish her and her baby.
How We Managed Her Eating Behaviour and Cravings?
One of the significant tasks my friend faced was managing cravings and the emotional aspect of eating during pregnancy. As we all know, pregnancy can bring about intense food cravings, and for someone with GDM, giving in to these cravings can have severe consequences.
To help her deal with these cravings, we incorporated wholesome, satisfying alternatives into her diet. For example, when she craved something sweet, I suggested she try a small portion of fruit paired with a source of protein, like a handful of nuts. This approach allowed her to satisfy her cravings without spiking her blood sugar.
Also Read: 5 Fruits Low On Glycemic Index That Are Good For Diabetics-Infographic
We also worked on mindful eating practices. I encouraged her to listen to her body's hunger and fullness cues, eat slowly, and enjoy each meal. This helped with portion control and reduced the emotional stress associated with her dietary restrictions.
Encouraging Regular Monitoring and Adjustment
Continuous self-monitoring of blood sugar levels was a crucial part of managing her GDM. I emphasized the importance of checking her blood glucose levels multiple times a day and keeping a detailed log. This helped us see how her body responded to the meal plan and made necessary adjustments in real-time.
There were days when her blood sugar levels were unexpectedly high, which naturally led to frustration and anxiety. During these moments, I was there to provide support and encouragement. We would review her food log, discuss any triggers, and adjust her meals or snacks. This continuous monitoring and adjustment were vital to maintaining stable blood sugar levels throughout her pregnancy.
Navigating the Emotional Ups and Downs
Pregnancy, especially one complicated by GDM, can be an emotional rollercoaster. My friend experienced her fair share of mood swings, anxiety about her baby’s health, and frustration with the dietary restrictions. I needed to acknowledge these feelings and provide emotional support as much as nutritional guidance.
We regularly discussed her emotional well-being and encouraged her to express her concerns openly. I reminded her that it was okay to feel overwhelmed and that she was not alone in this journey. This open line of communication helped us build a strong, trusting relationship, which was essential in keeping her motivated and on track.
The Final Stretch and a Healthy Delivery
As we approached the final weeks of her pregnancy, my friend’s commitment to her health and her baby’s well-being never wavered. Despite all challenges, she followed the plan diligently, monitored her blood sugar regularly, and made healthy choices even when it wasn’t easy.
When the day finally arrived, she delivered a healthy baby, and both mother and child were healthy. The joy and relief she felt were palpable, and knowing I had played a part in this positive outcome was incredibly rewarding.
Reflection On The Journey
Helping my friend manage her severe GDM and successfully deliver a healthy baby was a profound experience for me as a nutritionist. It emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach that focuses on health's physical and emotional aspects. Through careful planning, regular monitoring, and emotional support, we were able to turn what could have been a daunting experience into a journey of empowerment and success.
As a nutritionist, I feel privileged to have been a part of her journey and witnessed nutrition's power in supporting a healthy pregnancy.
Sample GDM Diet Plan (Indian Non-Vegetarian)
Early Morning (7:00 AM)
5 soaked almonds and one walnut
Breakfast (8:30 AM)
Option 1: 1 small multigrain roti with scrambled eggs (made with 1 whole egg and 2 whites), sautéed with vegetables (onions, spinach, tomatoes)
Option 2: Oats vegetable upma ¾ cup with 1 boiled egg
Option 3: Green gram dal dosa 2 small with vegetables and 1 boiled egg
Mid-Morning Snack (10:30 AM)
Option 1: 1 apple with a handful of roasted chana (chickpeas)
Option 2: 1 bowl of Greek yogurt with chia seeds
Lunch (1:00 PM)
Option 1: 2 multigrain chapatis, grilled chicken curry (cooked with less oil), and a side of salad (cucumber, carrots, tomatoes, etc.)
Option 2: Brown rice (1 small katori), grilled fish (preferably with Indian spices and lemon), and a bowl of spinach dal
Option 3: 1 bowl of vegetable Quinoa kichadi with 100 grams of grilled paneer and a bowl of cucumber, and tomato salad
Evening Snack (4:00 PM)
Option 1: 1 small bowl of sprouts chaat (moong sprouts with onions, tomatoes, lemon)
Option 2: 1 egg omelette (made with veggies) with a slice of multigrain toast
Option 3: 1 small bowl of nuts and seeds mix (almonds, walnuts, flax seeds)
Dinner (7:00 PM)
Option 1: Grilled fish or chicken with sautéed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, beans, etc.) and 1 multigrain roti
Option 2: Grilled paneer or chicken salad (lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, etc.) with olive oil dressing and 1 multigrain dosa
Option 3: Mushroom curry with 1 multigrain roti and a bowl of mixed vegetable stir fry
Bedtime Snack (9:30 PM)
Option 1: 1 glass of warm milk with a pinch of turmeric
Option 2: 1 small handful of mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts) with 1 slice of cheese
Key Notes:
It is essential to stay well hydrated and aim to drink 2-3 litres of water throughout the day.
Be mindful of eating habits, keep portions small and monitor blood sugar after meals to see how your body responds.
As per the doctor's advice, engage in light to moderate physical activity, such as walking for 20-30 minutes daily.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Diet and Healthy Lifestyle in the Management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Louise Rasmussen,1 Charlotte Wolff Poulsen,1 Ulla Kampmann,2 Stine Bech Smedegaard,2 Per Glud Ovesen,1 and Jens Fuglsang1,*
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7599681/
Nutrition as Prevention Factor of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review
Radzisław Mierzyński,* Elżbieta Poniedziałek-Czajkowska, Maciej Sotowski, and Magdalena Szydełko-Gorzkowicz
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8625817/
