1. Definition and symptoms of gestational diabetes in pregnant women
Gestational diabetes refers to a metabolic disease that occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by elevated glucose levels in the blood. This condition usually occurs around the 24th week of pregnancy, but some women may experience it earlier.
The main symptoms of gestational diabetes in pregnant women include: frequent urination, thirst, increased appetite, weight loss, blurred vision, etc. If not treated in time, this condition may lead to fetal malformations, difficult labor and other problems.
2. Dietary principles for pregnant women with gestational diabetes
(1) Carbohydrate intake
For pregnant mothers, it is necessary to include a moderate amount of carbohydrates in the diet, but excessive intake will increase glucose levels in the blood. Therefore, you should consume less carbohydrates in your diet and choose foods with low GI value (that is, glucose in the blood rises slowly), such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, etc.
(2) Increase protein intake
Protein is one of the nutrients necessary to maintain the normal functioning of pregnant women\’s bodies and can regulate blood sugar levels. Therefore, in the diet of pregnant women with gestational diabetes, they should appropriately increase the intake of protein, such as chicken, fish, etc.
(3) Reasonable fat intake
Although fat is one of the important sources of energy required by pregnant mothers, excessive intake can lead to weight gain and elevated cholesterol levels in pregnant women. Therefore, pregnant women with gestational diabetes should have a reasonable fat intake and choose healthy fat sources, such as olive oil, nuts, etc.
3. Examples of recipes for pregnant women with gestational diabetes
Breakfast: Whole wheat bread + low-fat milk + fruit salad
Lunch: chicken salad + whole wheat bread slices
Dinner: Grilled salmon + brown rice + vegetable salad
Snacks: nuts, fruits, etc.
4. Preventive measures for gestational diabetes in pregnant women
(1) Maintain a healthy weight
Pregnant women should maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy and avoid excessive obesity.
(2) Proper exercise
Appropriate exercise can help blood sugar levels. You can choose low-intensity exercise such as walking and swimming.
(3) Regularly check blood sugar levels
Pregnant women should check their blood sugar levels regularly and treat gestational diabetes in a timely manner.
In short, pregnant women should pay attention to the adjustment of diet and living habits during pregnancy, reasonable intake of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, maintain moderate exercise, and regularly check blood sugar levels. This can effectively prevent and treat gestational diabetes in pregnant women.
