Eating and Exercise
Eating for good health
If you have had diabetes for a while, now might be a good time to talk to a dietitian. Here are a few simple rules that you can follow:
- Eat regular meals - to help you balance the food you eat against your insulin dose.
- Eat more starchy food - starchy food such as bread or potatoes should form the main part of all your meals.
- Eat more high fiber food - particularly those containing soluble fiber such as peas, beans, vegetables, fruit, lentils and oats. They slow the rate at which you absorb sugars in your food.
- Keep your sugar intake down - something sweet as an occasional treat is fine but eat it after a meal - it will be absorbed more slowly.
- Cut down on fried and fatty food - try monounsaturated fats such as olive oil and choose skim or semi-skim milk.
- Aim for a healthy weight - pregnancy may make your diabetes more difficult to control. Being within the ideal weight will help.
- Cut down on salt - try using more herbs and spices when you cook; don't use salt on your food; and cut down on salty processed foods like potato chips.
Exercise
Exercise can help any woman planning to start a family. Stronger muscles and more flexible joints are particularly helpful during the months to come. Exercise also increases your body's sensitivity to insulin which will help your diabetic control. Becoming pregnant does not mean you have to stop exercising. In fact gentle exercise benefits all pregnant women. Discuss your exercise plan with your Doctor or Obstetrician before you begin. Walking is easy and enjoyable: even a brisk walk in your neighborhood each day can help improve your circulation.
Many moms-to-be enjoy swimming, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when the feeling of weightlessness can be quite a relief! Most local health clubs run water therapy or aquatic classes for pregnant women. It is best to let them know if you are using insulin before you start. Many aerobics instructors now run classes especially for pregnant women. Try to find one where a qualified Obstetrician will also be present and do let them know about your diabetes in advance.
Important Notice: Information provided is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any health care questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to health care issues.
DOC11711-Rev-A 04/08
