How to Prevent Getting Diabetes During Pregnancy

It is possible for a woman to get diabetes when she is pregnant. Gestational diabetes is the name of that type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Some women who are affected by gestational diabetes have it disappear after the pregnancy ends. Others will develop Type 2 diabetes later on in life. Women who are at the highest risk of getting diabetes while pregnant are Blacks, Hispanics, American Indian and Alaska-native women. Here are ways to prevent getting diabetes during pregnancy.

Things You'll Need

• Healthy foods
• Foods high in fiber
• Physician

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Instructions

• 1

  Eat a diet high in fiber. Studies have revealed that women who eat a high fiber diet prior to becoming pregnant are less likely to get gestational diabetes. Foods that are high in fiber include whole grain breads, muffins, bagels, oranges, apples with the skin, berries, lima beans, black-eyed peas, brown rice, broccoli, spinach and other dark leafy vegetables. A woman should increase her fiber intake.

• 2

  Exercise. Try to exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Exercise is great at preventing diabetes. Try to stay active to help burn calories and keep extra weight down. Exercise will also help keep your blood sugar level normal, and it can make you feel better. Walking is usually the easiest type of exercise when you are pregnant.

• 3

  Eat a healthy diet. Besides a diet that is high in fiber, all of your food choices should be healthy. Eliminate fatty foods in your diet. Make healthy food choices such as fruits, vegetables, fish, lean meats, dry beans, peas, whole grains and low-fat or skim milk and cheese.

• 4

  Eat smaller portions. While you are eating healthy foods, eat smaller portions of healthy food. You do not want to gain too much weight. The extra weight might contribute to you getting gestational diabetes. Eat smaller portions of healthy foods to help you reach and stay at a healthy weight.

• 5

  Drink water. When given a choice of what to drink, always choose water. Although you may be tempted, do not choose a soda or any other drink that is high in calories. Water is a healthy drink and is good for you. It will help you to keep your calories down.