So you have been diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes (GD). Suddenly you are questioning everything you have in your kitchen, that you ate yesterday or can eat at next week’s work shindig. Don’t despair. GD can be managed with a healthy and balanced diet. With a few small adjustments and handy hints, it will feel second nature in no time. We got you.
Here are the top 5 things to avoid with gestational diabetes:
Fruit
You normally get a gold star for eating fruit as a snack, however, fruit is full of naturals sugars. Definitely, don’t avoid fruit, but avoid large portions. Limit yourself to one portion at a time: either one small piece of fruit, half of a large piece of fruit, or about half a cup of mixed fruit. And steer clear of fruit that has been canned in syrup.
Fruit juices and soft drinks
One may be a little better than the other, but both fruit juices and soft drinks are a concentrated source of sugar and a sure-fire way to elevate your blood sugar levels. Because they are both liquids, they can raise blood sugar rapidly so best to choose between sparkling and still.
Milk
While milk is a good source of calcium, it is a liquid form of carbohydrate and drinking too much at one time can raise your blood sugar. Just remember: limit yourself to a glass at a time. A splash in a tea or coffee is fine.
Breakfast cereals
Store bought cereals can hide a sneaky amount of sugar. Make sure you check the carbohydrate content or better yet, make your own.
Sugary desserts
The most obvious but toughest to hear, limit your intake of sugary treats such as cookies, cakes, lollies and pastries. These are packed full of carbs and offer very little nutrition. Why not try a healthy bliss ball instead.
For more information on Gestational Diabetes, visit Diabetes Australia.
To get your day off to a bright start, here are 6 yummy brekkies if you have Gestational Diabetes
