11 November,2016 10:36 PM IST | | mid-day online correspondent
It is surprising to note that eating the right kinds of food even before pregnancy or during the course of planning also prevents the risk of developing gestational diabetes
Diabetes Mellitus, or diabetes is a chronic ailment that affects the body's ability to utilize the energy found in food. Diabetes is a very common lifestyle disease and in India 20 percent of the population seems to suffer from the disease. Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and poses risk for the mother and the developing foetus. However, gestational diabetes can be prevented or the risk of developing the disease can be minimized. It is surprising to note that eating the right kinds of food even before pregnancy or during planning also prevents the risk of developing gestational diabetes.
Protein based food: It is good to go for food items that are lean on protein. Lean low fat meat and poultry lower the risk of gestational diabetes. Also, protein diet should vary from day to day and items like nuts, fish, beans and fish need to be consumed alternatively.
Dairy products: Milk and milk products are rich in calcium. It is not always necessary to go for skimmed milk or low-fat dairy products. Even full fat milk and dairy products are seen to result in increased fertility.
Colour vegetables: This is in fact the best part of a diet that lowers the risk of gestational diabetes. Green vegetables, legumes and starchy vegetables are good for the mother's body. Colour vegetables like brinjals and bell pepper can also be included in regular diet.
Fresh Fruits: Fresh fruits are always preferred over canned fruits. Fresh fruits, either whole or cut-up do wonders to the mother and child's body. Drink juices in moderation as in this case the skin or flesh containing fibre gets removed.
Whole grains: Wheat, brown rice, oats, barley, cornflakes or another cereal grain contain vitamins, minerals and fibre. These help feel full longer and also lowers the risk of developing gestational diabetes.
Oil based food: Eating the right type of oil or fat does no harm during pregnancy. Fatty fish, avocados, olive oil and nuts can prevent the development of the disease.
It is always good to cut on red meat, sweet items, trans-fat based food, frozen meat, packed frozen vegetables and sugary beverages. A healthy pregnancy diet that includes more of soy, whole grains, fish, fruits and fibre provide exact nourishment to the woman's body and the growing baby.
