10 reasons to avoid excess sugar during pregnancy

If you’re following a healthy pregnancy eating plan you’ll notice levels of refined sugar are quite low, this is because it’s suggested women avoid too much sugar during pregnancy.

With this is mind our healthy pregnancy recipes and meals are packed with the nutrients you need for you and your baby during this special time.

By consuming a balanced diet during pregnancy, expectant mothers can maintain stable blood sugar levels, manage weight gain, and ensure proper blood pressure regulation, all of which contribute to a healthier pregnancy.

Additionally, a healthy diet plays a vital role in maintaining the overall well-being of the mother. It can help manage weight gain, reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, and support proper digestion and bowel movements. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide the necessary energy and nutrients for the body to function optimally during this special time.

Excessive weight gain can lead to various complications and increase your risk of developing gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and other pregnancy-related issues. It is crucial to understand that pregnancy is not a time for weight loss, but rather a time to focus on gaining weight in a healthy and controlled manner.

In our current society eating a high sugar diet during pregnancy is really common, in fact studies show women think pregnancy gives them free rein to eat whatever they feel like.

However, this can have serious consequences for mothers and their babies, and when we talk sugar, we are not just talking about the white powdered stuff, we are talking about most of your white foods such as breads, pasta, cakes, biscuits and potatoes.

This also includes all of the high GI foods such as flavoured and fizzy soft drinks, alcohol, lollies, jam, jelly, sauce and breakfast cereals. You get the idea!

10 scientifically researched reasons to avoid excess sugar during pregnancy:

1. A higher sugar intake is linked to a higher pregnancy weight gain.

2. Too much sugar increases glucose and insulin levels. So yes, eating excess sugar, does contribute to gestational diabetes.

3. Sugar can contribute to the development of a fatty liver.

4. The birth weight of your baby may be smaller or larger.

5. By eating a diet high in sugar during pregnancy, we are programming our child’s genes to be higher risk for metabolic syndrome, and diabetes.

6. Eating high sugar diets alters our children’s blood vessel structure and places them more at risk for heart diseases. These risk factors are found to be present in our children as early as age 7!

7. Eating a diet high in added sugars increases risk of pre-eclampsia.

8. Limit your intake of sugary drinks. Drinking both artificially-sweetened soft drinks, fruit juice, and standard soft drinks increases risk of pre-term delivery.

9. Prenatal and pregnancy consumption of sugar has been linked to having obese children.

10. You increase your likelihood of having nausea and/or vomiting if you eat a diet high in carbohydrates and added sugars.

It is not uncommon for pregnant women to experience cravings for various types of food. It’s important to satisfy these cravings while still maintaining a healthy diet to support the well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. Incorporating nutritious snack options into your daily routine can help you meet your cravings in a way that promotes a healthy pregnancy.

Instead of reaching for processed or sugary snacks to satisfy your sugar cravings, opt for healthier alternatives that provide essential nutrients. Here are some snack options that can fulfil your cravings without compromising your nutritional needs:

1. Fresh fruits and vegetables: Snacking on a variety of fruits and vegetables not only satisfies cravings but also provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Keep a selection of washed and cut fruits and veggies in your refrigerator for easy access.

2. Greek yogurt: High in protein and calcium, Greek yogurt is a satisfying and nutritious snack. Add some fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for added flavour.

3. Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are packed with essential fatty acids, protein, and fibre. They make for a convenient and filling snack that can help curb cravings.

4. Whole grain crackers or rice cakes: Opt for whole grain options that provide complex carbohydrates, fibre, and nutrients. Pair them with hummus, nut butter, or low-fat cheese for added flavour and protein.

5. Smoothies: Blend together a combination of fruits, vegetables, and a source of protein, such as Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder. Our Pregnancy Smoothies are a delicious way to satisfy cravings while getting a boost of vitamins and minerals.

Remember, moderation is key. While it’s important to indulge in cravings occasionally, it’s equally important to maintain a balanced and varied diet for optimal health during pregnancy. By choosing healthier snack options, you can nourish your body and promote the well-being of both you and your baby.

Hopefully, you’re convinced about why you need to remove lots of high GI carbs and excessive sugar intake from your diet.

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