Controlling your blood sugar is important for your health and for the health of your unborn baby. You likely have concerns about being pregnant because of the fact that you have diabetes. You can have a healthy pregnancy if you keep your blood sugar level under control. Eating wisely during your pregnancy is one way to keep yourself healthy during the pregnancy.

Your target range may not be the same as it is when you are not pregnant. Talk to your doctor and get a clear understanding of what your target range is now that you are pregnant, or if you are planning to become pregnant.

There are significant risks to you and your baby if you do not control your blood glucose. High blood sugar can potentially be harmful to your baby. Controlling your blood sugar by eating healthily can help avoid risks of certain birth defects such as defects of the spine or the brain, or the risk of your baby having a heart defect.

Continue eating a healthy diet as recommended by your nutritionist and doctor during your pregnancy. Remember to eat fresh vegetables, healthy protein and fresh fruit, rather than canned fruit. Avoid unhealthy snacks and frozen dinners. Make sure that you get the nutrients that you need for a healthy pregnancy.

For most mere mortals, eating well is always a struggle. For those with diabetes, it is even more problematic. Add pregnancy into the mix and it becomes more important than ever to make wise food decisions. After all, you’re now eating for two and every bite you take has massive implications for your health as well as the health of your baby. So, what do you need to eat in order to eat wisely during pregnancy with diabetes?

• Vegetables. Start your journey with lots of vegetables. Heavy emphasis on non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, green beans, cucumbers, squash, zucchini, leafy greens, eggplant, cauliflower, and peppers.
• Lean protein. This is important for the baby and mother alike during pregnancy and includes things like seafood, chicken, eggs, turkey, and low-fat dairy options. Plus, protein is more difficult to digest than high-carbohydrate foods, helping you feel fuller longer.
• Complex carbohydrates. While the temptation may be to cut out all carbs, you and your baby both need the fiber that is found in complex carbohydrates. These carbs take longer to process and don’t cause as much of a spike in your blood glucose. The key is always moderation when eating complex carbs that include berries, Greek yogurt, brown rice, and whole-grain bread.

Eating wisely may be a struggle, especially when your hormones are a little off balance and you are dealing with stress and other factors. Following the plan, though, can help ensure a safer pregnancy for you and the best possible start in life for your baby.