Healthy Breakfast for Gestational Diabetes

Healthful Vitality | 08/21/2021 | By Guest Contributor | Healthy Breakfast for Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a form of carbohydrate intolerance that increases glucose levels during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes can be of variable severity, depending on the level of hyperglycemia. However, studies have shown that women with GDM give birth to children at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and obesity.

Currently, more than 18.4 million women suffer from GDM, accounting for 86.4% of gestational hyperglycemia. In addition, research has shown that adults with a low birth weight have a higher incidence of insulin resistance, adiposity, and increased glucose concentration. Therefore, maternal diet plays a vital role in providing all the necessary macro and micronutrients required during pregnancy. Admittedly, a poor diet results in low birth weight and other diseases. Hence, lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity play a crucial role in the management of GDM.

Healthy Breakfast for Gestational Diabetes: What foods increase the risk for gestational diabetes?

A diet with a high content of total fat, saturated fat increases the risk for GDM. Hence, during pregnancy, one should increase the intake of fruits, vegetables and lower the consumption of starchy and sugary foods. According to a study conducted in Spain, a higher intake of potatoes, sugary beverages, and fast food increased the risk for gestational diabetes.

Another critical thing to take into account is the intake of red and processed meat. A diet rich in red meat, refined sugars, and oily products leads to a high glucose level and increases insulin resistance. Therefore, nutrition and dietary patterns are associated with gestational diabetes. Consequently, it is essential to consume leafy vegetables, fruits, legumes, and dairy products and reduce foods with high saturated fats and carbohydrates.

Role of healthy breakfast in improving gestational diabetes

• Glycemic index of women: Studies have shown that healthy eating habits before pregnancy as well as during pregnancy influence the glycemic index of women. It is important to consume breakfast that improves gestational diabetes.
  
• Plant-based diet during pregnancy: A diet consisting of fruits, such as apples, blueberries, grapes, and green leafy vegetables should be planned for breakfast. Intake of protein should be plant-based as it improves insulin resistance and reduces the severity of gestational diabetes.
  
• Avoid foods with high sugar content: Beverages that have added sugar and processed food should be avoided. These substances will increase the blood sugar level and pose a higher risk for GDM.

Nutritional diet in Gestational diabetes

A diabetes plate method is a healthy approach to follow. It will provide all the essential nutrients that will help to decrease the risk for GDM. According to this method, should fill a medium-sized plate (9-inch plate) with various nutritional components. This part includes non-starchy vegetables (broccoli, carrots, cauliflower) in one half of the plate. The rest half should consist of protein foods (beans, hummus, and lentils) and fruits (apples, blueberries). Thus, it acts as a well-balanced method, providing all essential components required by pregnant women with GDM.

Other nutritional foods in pregnancy for gestational diabetes

In pregnancy, should consume healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats to protect against cardiovascular diseases and maintain cholesterol levels. Foods with healthy fats include foods such as nuts, olive oil, and avocados. Notably, the diet for gestational diabetes mellitus should be well-balanced and include an adequate amount of vegetables, fruits, and dairy products.