#asktheexpert 7 month carrying.. sugar issue.. any advice for food and anthing

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Accepted Answer

Managing gestational diabetes with a balanced Indian diet is crucial for both the health of the mother and the baby. Here are some dietary guidelines to help manage gestational diabetes:

1. **Complex Carbohydrates:** Focus on consuming complex carbohydrates that have a low glycemic index (GI), which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Examples include whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole wheat roti (chapati), and millets like ragi and jowar.

2. **High-Fiber Foods:** Incorporate plenty of fiber-rich foods into your diet, such as vegetables (especially leafy greens), fruits (with low glycemic index like apples, berries, and citrus fruits), lentils, beans, and legumes. Fiber helps slow down the absorption of sugar and promotes better blood sugar control.

3. **Lean Proteins:** Include lean protein sources in your meals to help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote satiety. Opt for lean meats like chicken and fish, eggs, tofu, cottage cheese (paneer), lentils, and legumes.

4. **Healthy Fats:** Choose healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon. These fats provide essential nutrients and can help improve insulin sensitivity.

5. **Portion Control:** Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating and spikes in blood sugar levels. Use measuring cups or a food scale to ensure accurate portion sizes, especially for carbohydrate-rich foods.

6. **Regular Meal Timing:** Stick to a consistent meal schedule with regular intervals between meals and snacks. Avoid skipping meals or going long periods without eating, as this can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

7. **Limit Sugary Foods and Beverages:** Minimize or avoid sugary foods, sweets, desserts, sugary beverages, and processed snacks, as these can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

8. **Stay Hydrated:** Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support overall health.

9. **Monitor Blood Sugar Levels:** Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for monitoring blood sugar levels regularly. Keep a food diary to track your meals, snacks, and blood sugar readings.

10. **Consult a Registered Dietitian:** Work with a registered dietitian or nutritionist who specializes in gestational diabetes to develop a personalized meal plan tailored to your individual needs and preferences.

Remember to combine your dietary modifications with regular physical activity and follow any additional recommendations from your healthcare provider to effectively manage gestational diabetes. Always consult with your healthcare team before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.