Counting Carbs During Pregnancy

At the moment following a low carb nutrition plan seems to be the latest craze. So, is this a safe option during your pregnancy, or is it something to be avoided at all costs. Is it safe for you and your developing baby? We all know that eating correctly is extremely important- both for you and your baby, but also for other reasons. If you are going to follow a healthy diet, it will also ensure that you have the energy you need to get through the days, as well as make it easier for you to return to your formal shape and fitness.

Cutting Carbohydrates During Pregnancy

Most doctors will ask you to stay away from following a low carb diet during the course of their pregnancy. If you are not getting enough carbohydrates then your body cannot use its fat in the normal way, and this results in a breakdown of fat, which produces a by product called ketones. Ketones are very bad for you- if ketones accumulate in your blood and urine, they cause ketosis, which is a condition that can cause brain damage and irreversible mental retardation in your infant. So as you can see, following a low carb eating plan during your pregnancy, is not recommended, and rightly so.

The importance of carbohydrates during pregnancy

Not only will you run the risk of developing ketosis if you, but there is also a strong chance that you will be robbing your body – and developing baby – of vital nutrition and fibre. There are certain nutrients which can only be found in carbohydrates. Powerful antioxidants and fibre also work together to boost your immune system. Fibre is also important during your pregnancy, as it helps prevent constipation. Fibre is found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Of course, there are some carbohydrates which can be eliminated from your diet during your pregnancy, such as “white” carbohydrates – commonly found in white bread, white rice and white pasta.

A Necessary Diet

Of course there are situations which require you to follow a special diet, and that special diet may require that you cut your intake of carbohydrates. One example may be if you suffer from low blood sugar levels, and carbohydrates may make that worse. Gestational diabetes is another situation which may also require that you reduce the intake of carbohydrates.

Last Words

The key to any healthy pregnancy is that you communicate with your health care provider. He or she will know what’s best for you, what’s best for your pregnancy – and your baby. They will be able to advise you what is best for your current pregnancy, what you need and what you can cut out or reduce