A healthy pregnancy is one of the priority checks for every expecting woman. However, for women with diabetes, particularly those who are examined with gestational diabetes as their health can become more complicated during pregnancy. A woman diagnosed with diabetes has numerous challenging hurdles ahead of them. Are you one of them? If yes, you do not need to worry. We have good news for you!!! We will tell you different ways which will certainly help you to increase your possibilities of a healthy pregnancy as well as a healthy baby.
Before knowing about them, let us tell you why it is important to take measurements during your pregnancy. A diabetic woman who is diagnosed before her pregnancy has a higher risk of difficulties & complications such as birth defects and even miscarriage. And that is why it is important to have an appropriate plan and some healthy strategies to support your body to control your diabetes. Now that you know the importance of being careful.
Ways To Enjoy Your Pregnancy In Diabetes
Here are some of the effective ways which will help you to enjoy your pregnancy even if you have diabetes:
1. Lose Your Weight
This is known to be the best way to assure you will have a healthy pregnancy. Yes, it is very important to make sure you begin out at a normal weight. Try to have a primarily plant-based diet, just say no to excessive sugar food items, preservatives, processed food items and also those with high saturated fats.
2. Visit Your Doctor Before Your Pregnancy
If you are a diabetic patient who is planning to conceive, then it is always recommended to have a word with your doctor first. This certainly will help you to be sure about your A1C levels. If it turns out to be not normal, then ask about the medication (if it’s necessary) or else ask to be referred to a nutritionist.
3. Have a count on Carbs
When you plan your meals, you should know how many carbohydrates are you consuming from each food. Also, you should better limit the number of carbohydrates as it will increase your blood sugar.
4. Exercise
Exercise has many benefits! It will help in the better metabolization of food, control blood glucose as well as help you to control your weight during & after your pregnancy. A pregnant woman should get 150 min of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly.
5. Control Your Food Aversions
It is high time to say yes to fresh green vegetable juices!! Yes, you should try it!! These juices are good sources of folate & calcium. Also, this controls your appetite as well as prevent your sugar cravings. You should avoid juices with excess fruits because it can increase your blood sugar.
6. Increase Vegetables
We all know that vegetables are rich in phytonutrients that fill us up with lots of fibers and also they aid digestion & prevent excessive weight gain. Vegetables also are low calorie and carbohydrates. And all these won’t affect your blood sugar. Non-starchy vegetables such as lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and broccoli are all good choices for you. Go for it!!
7. Watch Out on Your Drinks
It is very important to consume plenty of water to stay hydrated during pregnancy. You should be sure to avoid soda, juice, sports drinks and most importantly sweeteners in tea and coffee.
Also Read: What To Eat And What Not To If You Have Diabetes?
8. Utilize Technology
You should find apps that will help you to log blood sugar, food and even count carbs and sensors. Monitor your blood glucose on a continuous basis!!
9. It is okay to Indulge
It is ALRIGHT to have a slice of pie or cookies however check the total carbohydrates you are eating. If you have dessert, consider compensating a salad instead of a sandwich in your dinner.
10. Get Support
Many have misconceptions about diabetes during pregnancy, some even blame themselves or while some search for advice. You should seek out help from a certified diabetes educator or a registered dietitian nutritionist. They will help you to design a realistic as well as a delicious meal plan for you. It is very important to know that you need a plan. Yes, stick with a plan as soon as possible.
Remember, it is important to work hard to achieve excellent control over your diabetes. And at any point, if you feel yourself getting frustrated or burnt out, remind yourself of the long-term advantages of all the hard work you are putting into your pregnancy.
Also Read: Benefits Of Green Tea For Diabetic Patients