7 Foods For Reducing Chances of Gestational diabetes

 

 

 

     Gestational diabetes is a common condition affecting approximately 16.2% of pregnant women worldwide. This condition arises due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, which impair the body’s ability to respond effectively to insulin. As a result, this may lead to complications during pregnancy and after childbirth. Therefore, appropriate dietary habits, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk of diabetic wounds and other serious health threats to both the mother and the baby.

 

Why Are Pregnant Women at Risk of High Blood Sugar Levels?

     Pregnant women are at increased risk of developing high blood sugar levels because the placenta, a special organ created during pregnancy, produces certain hormones that counteract insulin — the hormone responsible for controlling blood glucose. These hormonal changes reduce the body’s ability to utilize sugar efficiently, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and a condition known as gestational diabetes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

7 Foods For Reducing Chances of Gestational diabetes

The following foods may help reduce blood sugar levels during pregnancy:

 

1.  Seafood

     Seafood, including shrimp, shellfish, crab, fish, and other marine animals, is a rich source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients help regulate blood sugar levels. Protein, in particular, slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, thereby preventing spikes in blood glucose. Fish consumption is especially recommended.

 

2.  Legumes

     Legumes are rich in magnesium, fiber, and protein, which contribute to reducing the cells’ insulin resistance and help lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, their high soluble fiber content slows digestion, promoting satiety and helping control post-meal blood sugar spikes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.  Berries

     Berries are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In addition to supporting blood sugar control, research shows that they help eliminate excess glucose from the body, potentially preventing the onset of diabetes.

 

4.  Citrus Fruits

     Citrus fruits, especially oranges, are excellent sources of various vitamins such as A, B, C, and E. They are also high in fiber, calcium, and phosphorus, which help protect cells from damage. Moreover, they contain naringin, a polyphenol known for its effective anti-diabetic properties.

 

5.  Yogurt

     Yogurt is rich in protein, essential nutrients, and probiotics that support bone health and immunity. Studies show that consuming yogurt daily for four weeks can lower blood sugar levels due to increased insulin production. Greek yogurt is particularly recommended for expectant mothers as it contains more protein and fewer carbohydrates than regular yogurt.

 

6.  Eggs

     Eggs are highly nutritious, offering protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Research suggests that eating one egg per day can help lower blood sugar levels. Eggs also promote insulin secretion and reduce inflammation, aiding in diabetes management. Additionally, they help decrease the presence of harmful free radicals in the body.

 

7.  Apples

     Apples contain soluble fiber and various antioxidant compounds such as quercetin, chlorogenic acid (CGA), and gallic acid, all of which contribute to reducing blood sugar levels and preventing diabetes.

 

Additional Recommendations:

• Emphasize leafy green vegetables.
• Reduce intake of sugar, refined grains, and sweetened beverages, including fruit juice.
• Avoid foods high in cholesterol and processed meats.
• Replace saturated fats (trans fats, coconut oil, palm oil) with unsaturated fats, and strictly avoid trans fats.
• Reduce sodium intake.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Diabetes Screening With 'Ram Hospital'

Ramkhamhaeng Hospital offers a diabetes screening package for both men and women, priced at 4,890 THB.