Once the Gestational Diabetes Meal Plan is in place, blood glucose is checked on a regular basis. If the blood sugars show a trend of acceptable readings, the meal plan may be adjusted to a higher carbohydrate allowance.
This generally does not occur with many women with gestational diabetes due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.
Suggested Menu Plan for Gestational Diabetes
Breakfast: Two carbohydrate choices (30 grams)
1 slice whole wheat toast (1 choice)
1 egg or 1 Tbsp. peanut butter
1 tsp. soft margarine
8 oz. low-fat milk (1 choice)
Snack: Two carbohydrate choices (30 grams)
3 graham cracker squares (1 choice)
8 oz. fat-free milk (1 choice)
Lunch or Supper: Three to four carbohydrates (45–60 grams)
2 slices bread (2 choices)
½ medium banana (1 choice)
6 oz. light yogurt (1 choice)
1 c. carrot and celery sticks
2-3 oz. roast beef
2 tsp. soft margarine
Snack: Two carbohydrate choices (30 grams)
3 c. popcorn, lower fat (1 choice)
1 c. cantaloupe (1 choice)
1 unsweetened beverage
Dinner: Three to four carbohydrates (45–60 grams)
3 oz. chicken breast
1 small baked potato (1 choice)
½ c. broccoli
½ c. peaches (1 choice)
1 small dinner roll (1 choice)
8 oz. fat-free milk (1 choice)
1 tsp. margarine
Snack: Two carbohydrate choices (30 grams)
6 whole wheat crackers (1 choice)
1 oz. cheese
8 oz. fat-free milk (1 choice)
Source of Suggested Menu Plan for Gestational Diabetes is taken from Simplified Diet Manual, Eleventh Edition. Edited by Andrea K. Maher.
