Diet for Gestational Diabetes


Apart from following a strict diet for gestational diabetes, there are natural remedies that can help manage this condition. Most pregnant women are afraid of taking drugs and medications during pregnancy and prefer using natural ingredients to treat gestational diabetes. Although these natural remedies may not be a sure shot cure for gestational diabetes, they may help alleviate the symptoms of this condition. Since pregnancy is a delicate phase, it is always better to consult your doctor or gynecologist before trying any of these home remedies. Some of the popular home remedies for gestational diabetes include:

  • Astragalus: You need to use this herbal remedy in addition to conventional medications for the treatment of gestational diabetes. Women using a combination of these two methods have shown a marked improvement in their blood sugar levels. However, any herbal supplement should always be used under a doctor’s professional guidance during pregnancy.
  • Fenugreek Seeds: This is a very popular home remedy for diabetes. Soak some fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Strain and drink this mixture first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. This remedy helps in controlling and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels even during pregnancy.
  • Cinnamon: Cinnamon contains natural chemicals that help in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Add 3 tablespoons of cinnamon powder to a liter of boiling water and simmer it nicely for 20 minutes. Strain and drink this mixture as a natural treatment for gestational diabetes.
  • Mango Leaves: Boil 3-4 mango leaves in water and drink this mixture every morning as a treatment for gestational diabetes.
  • Almonds: Almonds soaked in water overnight and had first thing in the morning on an empty stomach are another good cure for gestational diabetes.

References
  1. Nian Wang, DeLing Zhang, XianQing Mao, Feng Zou, Huan Jin, JingPing Ouyang, Astragalus polysaccharides decreased the expression of PTP1B through relieving ER stress induced activation of ATF6 in a rat model of type 2 diabetes, Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, Volume 307, Issues 1–2, 13 August 2009, Pages 89-98, ISSN 0303-7207, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.mce.2009.03.001.
  2. Ajaya K. Shetty, Paramahans V. Salimath, Reno-protective effects of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum greacum) during experimental diabetes, e-SPEN, the European e-Journal of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism, Volume 4, Issue 3, June 2009, Pages e137-e142, ISSN 1751-4991, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.eclnm.2009.02.002.