Gestational diabetes is a term used when a pregnant woman experiences high blood glucose levels. During this period, a woman may have to follow a diabetes-friendly food plan. It will help her manage gestational diabetes and maintain her health for safe childbirth. Some women may choose not to take insulin to tackle gestational diabetes. However, a safer way would be to follow a healthy meal plan throughout the duration of the pregnancy.

Here is the list of healthy foods for gestational diabetes.

1. Non-starchy vegetables
There are essential fiber, minerals, and vitamins in non-starchy vegetables. Some of the healthy vegetables are cucumbers, green beans, onions, and peppers. Therefore, pregnant women with gestational diabetes can add these non-starchy vegetables to their diabetes and food plan.

2. Foods with lean proteins
Eating protein with every meal is beneficial for women with gestational diabetes. It will help them to feel full and satiate their hunger. Further, some foods that improve the condition include lean proteins like eggs, chicken, low-fat dairy, and turkey. It is good to eat proteins during breakfast time. If a woman experiences morning sickness, then protein-rich foods can help them to tackle it, too.

3. Foods containing healthy fats
Healthy fats are good for heart health. Some foods that contain essential fats are avocado, olive oil, seeds, and nuts. Therefore, eating these food products rich in fat is beneficial for gestational diabetes.

4. Carbohydrates-rich foods
Less than half of the calories a person eats must come from carbs. Therefore, some healthy carbohydrate-rich food items for pregnant women with gestational diabetes are cereal, yogurt, cookies, milk, and fruit. But the most beneficial carbs are the complex carbs that are high in fiber found in whole-grain. Further, the carbohydrates available in foods have to be measured in grams. Pregnant women with gestational diabetes need to know the measure of their daily carb intake. So they can take better care of their health.

5. Juicy fruits
Fruits have carbs and are also rich in vitamins and minerals. But pregnant women with gestational diabetes must eat fruits that suit them. It will depend on their carb requirements and tolerance. One of the best fruit choices is berries, as it is high in fiber and low in sugar. Berries taste good with smoothies, yogurt, and whole-grain oatmeal. Frozen berries are delicious as they are crunchy. Add this to your diabetes food plan.

6. Essential nutrients
Pregnant women with gestational diabetes may crave processed foods. But they have to limit the intake because it is not healthy. For instance, it will be hard to resist the crispy French fries. But try to follow diabetes and foods plan and eat foods rich in essential nutrients. Fresh or frozen vegetables and fruits are tasty and can be used as an alternative to processed foods. Also, sweet potato with mashed avocado and cherry tomatoes is a tasty dish.