Gold Coast Gestational Diabetes Dietitian
So this is the 25th week of your pregnancy, you are still feeling healthy and fit and just going to your usual check-up with your midwife and doctor. By then, you are told that you have Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and you need to find a Gold Coast Gestational Diabetes Dietitian. A scenario like this is quite common in Australia, around 1 in 6 females who gave birth in the hospital were diagnosed with GDM. So what’s next? How can I manage it?
You can be upset and shocked at the time, or even blame yourself for the lifestyle choices you have made. But before diving into the negative thoughts, having GDM is not all your fault. In fact, a majority of cases have a healthy pregnancy, normal delivery and a healthy baby, when you have a balanced diet, regular exercise, monitoring and maintaining your blood sugar level. So please don’t overstress yourself.
What is GDM?
Gestational Diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, most females will no longer have diabetes after the baby is born. During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that facilitate the growth and development of the baby. These hormones also stop the insulin from working properly, therefore it is more difficult for your body to balance blood sugar levels.
How to eat with Gold Coast Gestational Diabetes?
- Have a balanced diet
Including a wide range of food in your diet, fill your plate up with whole grain, lean protein, healthy fat, fruit and plenty of veggies. Yes, that’s right, it is not much different from an average balanced diet. The Dietary Guidelines for pregnancy and breastfeeding is a great starting point for you.
- Choosing the right type and amount of carbohydrate food/drinks
Try to include some carbohydrates in most meals and snacks each day. The type of carbohydrate you choose also plays a role in affecting your blood sugar level, so try to have low glycaemic index carbohydrate foods (e.g. rolled oats, grainy bread, lentils/legumes, wheat pasta, sweet potato, fruit, milk etc.).
If you have any concerns and require individualised dietary advice, feel free to ask our dietitian today.