Carbohydrates And Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a carbohydrate intolerance of variable severity that is recognized during pregnancy. It is the inability of the tissue to absorb glucose from the bloodstream during pregnancy due to lack of the hormone insulin.

Most women with gestational diabetes have no symptoms and hence it is recommended that all pregnant women be screened for gestational diabetes during the 24th and 28th weeks of their pregnancy. Symptoms are usually mild and not life threatening, hence often ignored. Typical symptoms are thirst, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, increased urination, blurred vision, weight loss and frequent infections. Gestational diabetes if left untreated will prove more harmful to the child after birth.

Mild forms of gestational diabetes can be treated with diet by decreasing the intake of sugars and fats. The overall principle is to reduce the amount of fat, simple sugar and salt and increase the amount of complex carbohydrates and foods high in fiber. Protein choices with less fat such as skinless poultry, fish and lean meats are recommended. Approximately 50 to 60 percent of the day’s total calories should come from complex carbohydrates such as starches and whole grain breads, with an emphasis on the high fiber choices as they provide energy, minerals and vitamins. Food sources of complex carbohydrates and fiber are vegetables and fruits, cereals, dried beans and peas and lentils and legumes.

Sources of simple and concentrated carbohydrates such as table sugar, honey, soda, juice or syrup in moderations may be used. These sources cause the blood sugar level to rise quickly. Exercise caution while eating such simple carbohydrates.

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Carbohydrates And Gestational Diabetes