The Gestational Diabetes Meal Plan for a woman with follows the same principles as the Consistent Carbohydrate Diet. Total carbohydrate intake is usually 40 to 45% of total calories. Some researchers advocate lower carbohydrate intakes, however, the minimum amount of carbohydrate recommended daily in pregnancy is 175 grams according to the DRIs.
Care must be taken to provide enough calories in the Gestational Diabetes Meal Plan to promote proper weight gain and prevent starvation ketosis; extra protein and fat foods at each meal and snack time can aid in meeting calorie needs. An evening snack is necessary to prevent ketosis. Women are advised to check ketones before breakfast.
Generally, the Gestational Diabetes Meal Plan pattern for breakfast is reduced in carbohydrates due to hormonal surges and insulin resistance in the morning hours. The carbohydrate allowance for breakfast is limited to two choices (30 grams) to help promote optimal blood glucose levels.
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Suggested Menu Plan for Gestational Diabetes
Source : Simplified Diet Manual, Eleventh Edition. Edited by Andrea K. Maher.
