Gestational diabetes is a kind of diabetes that happens during pregnancy. If gestational diabetes show up, it will generally be between 24 to 32 weeks pregnant and go away after the baby is delivered. Be that as it may, it’s possible to develop gestational diabetes either before or after the 24 to 32 weeks gestation.

Insulin keeps glucose levels on track. During a pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that keep the insulin from working as well as it is supposed to.

There are possible complications for both the mother and the baby with high blood sugar. Be sure to stay in touch with your doctor. Once a mother has developed gestational diabetes during one pregnancy, the chances of developing it in future pregnancies increases.

In the United States alone, more than one million people are diagnosed with this condition each year. If you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, it is important to learn how to manage your diet to keep your blood sugar at normal levels.

Here are some of the most common foods to eat if you have Gestational Diabetes.

1) Fruit
Fruit is very low in calories and high in fiber, which helps to stabilize blood sugar levels. Fruit provides needed vitamins and minerals for both the baby and the mother. Bananas, apples, peaches, strawberries, pears, apricots, cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew melon, kiwi, and oranges are all good choices.

It is suggested that pineapple only be consumed in the first trimester. It contains bromelain which can soften the cervix if too much is consumed; that can cause early labor. Hence, the suggestion to limit it to the first trimester.

2) Whole Grains
Whole grains include oats, wheat, barley, rye, brown rice, quinoa, and millet. They are very filling and help to keep you full longer. Also, they contain iron, selenium and magnesium. And they are good sources of B vitmains the baby needs for full development and growth.

3) Lean Protein
Lean protein sources include fish, chicken, turkey, beef, pork, lamb, and beans. These are also good sources of iron, zinc, and other nutrients that are important for your baby’s growth. Most expectant mothers are already meeting their needed protein requirements. How much protein you should consume will depend on a number things like what week in gestation you are, how active you’re keeping yourself, how much you weigh, etc. As a general guideline, take your pre-pregnancy weight and divide that by two. That gives the daily needed grams of protein per day.

4) Healthy Fats
Healthy fats include olive oil, peanut butter, almonds, avocados, soybean oil, and walnuts. These contain healthy omega 3 fatty acids, which are very beneficial for your baby’s brain development. One question that is often asked is how much healthy fat intake should be consumed during pregnancy. As a rule, keep it to under 30 percent of your caloric intake. Some days it may be a little more, some days, a little less. So don’t obsess if you have an off-day every now and then.

5) Low Carbohydrate Foods
Low carbohydrate foods include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. These are also good sources of fiber, and protein. Check with your doctor on this so you know about any health risks. There are different schools of thought on how low you should go with low-carb intake when pregnant.

6) High Fiber Foods
High-fiber foods include whole-grain bread, cereals, and pasta. They are good sources of carbohydrates, but they also contain fiber, which is important for digestion. Maintaining good digestive health during pregnancy is especially important. The daily reference intake is 28 grams per day for women.

7) Vegetables
Vegetables are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. Some of the best vegetable choices include broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, lettuce, peppers, tomatoes, green beans, and spinach. As usually, leafy greens are always at the top of the list, so eat plenty of those. They’re packed with the nutrition both mom and baby need.

8) Beans
Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, folate, and potassium. They are also very low in fat, and can be eaten plain or cooked. Try adding basil to your favorite bean dish. It’s a pregnancy super food.

9) Dairy Products
Dairy products include milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. They are very good sources of calcium, vitamin D, and protein. Be sure to avoid all unpasteurized dairy products.

10) Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of protein, and they can be eaten any time of the day. They are also a good source of vitamins B12 and B6. Be sure they are completely cooked and pasteurized.