What to eat and what to avoid

Which carbs to eat with gestational diabetes?

A gestational diabetes diagnosis doesn’t mean eliminating carbs from your diet. Instead, it’s about incorporating good carbs and balancing them with protein, fats, and fiber. But what are good carbs?

Whole grains: Foods like whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa, barley, and oats contain fiber and nutrients, which slow down digestion and help stabilize blood sugar levels.

Non-starchy vegetables: vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, bell peppers, zucchini and spinach are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals while being low in carbohydrates.

Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent sources of complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, making them ideal choices for managing blood sugar levels.

Fruits: While fruits contain natural sugars, certain options like berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), apples, and pears are lower in carbohydrates and higher in fiber and essential nutrients that slow down sugar absorption.

Dairy: Dairy products like unsweetened yogurt and milk provide carbohydrates along with protein and essential nutrients. Opt for plain or Greek yogurt without added sugars.

Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds. Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote satiety.

Opting for good carbs, also known as complex carbs, can help stabilize your blood sugar levels. These carbs take longer to digest, resulting in a slower and more sustained release of glucose into the bloodstream. By prioritizing complex carbs and balancing them with protein, fats, and fiber, you can better manage your condition while ensuring optimal nutrition for you and your baby.