What can I eat?
Your diet is going to be essentially the same as it was preconception. One difference, however, is the amount of food that needs to be eaten. While this is normal and suggested for all women, the difference between a non-diabetic pregnancy and a diabetic pregnancy is what is eaten and when it should be eaten. According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, women who have diabetes should be eating three meals a day with three snacks to complement those meals.
There are stipulations, however. While you should be conscious of the carbohydrates you are taking it, the CDA recommends even going as far as restricting carbohydrates from your diet and eating a good balance of vegetables, whole grains, non-fat dairy products, fruits, lentils, and lean meats. Also, one thing to keep in mind is that the third meal of the day should be eaten right before bedtime.
What are some precautions I should take?
Whether you have hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, it is extremely important that your glucose levels are checked regularly. Doctors also suggest that pregnant women with diabetes check their blood sugar at night. Some women may already be doing this, but others aren't; this all depends on their doctor's instructions. If you typically check your blood sugar at night, continue doing so. If you aren't a night checker, get into the habit of getting up and checking your glucose levels. You'll want to make sure everything's all right so that you and baby can be healthy during pregnancy.
Chances are you're going to want to take it easy during your pregnancy; however, it is suggested by the American Diabetes Association to get some exercise. Talk with your doctor and have him or her help you create a workout plan. In addition to the workout plan, make sure that you avoid certain activities that could cause unnecessary stress on your body such as:
- Activities that put you in danger of falling or receiving abdominal injury
- Activities that put pressure on your abdomen
- Scuba diving
- Vigorous, intense exercise
- Activities with bouncing or jolting movements
What does this mean for my baby?
Glucose levels need to be monitored extra carefully during pregnancy. If there are elevated levels of glucose during the first trimester, your baby has a higher risk of malformations. If glucose levels go unchecked later on in your pregnancy, your baby is at risk of macrosomia, which is a condition where the baby is larger than is normal, as well as being at risk for complications for their metabolism. With monitoring, you can control the risk level.
Thousands of women who have diabetes have had successful pregnancies and healthy babies. The trick to having both a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby is staying on top of your glucose levels.
SOURCE: Everydayfamily
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