Mexican food and gestational diabetes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nLooking to enjoy the bold and spicy flavors of Mexican cuisine with gestational diabetes? Here are a few general tips to follow and a couple meal ideas to get you started:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Appetizer:<\/strong> Look for options that also include a lean protein like chicken or shrimp and add healthy fats like avocado or nuts!<\/p>\n\n\n\nEntree:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Look for proteins like chicken, shrimp, or fish! If you\u2019re craving beef opt for a lean cut like sirloin or tenderloin. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Remember what I mentioned earlier: veggies are your best friend! There are plenty of non-starchy vegetable options that are common at Mexican restaurants like: peppers, onions, zucchini, and tomatoes. These are all lower in carbs but higher in fiber which is great for blood sugar levels!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Include whole-grains and complex carbs like brown rice, whole-wheat or corn tortillas or beans!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Choose tomato-based sauces or pico de gallo as a topping. You can also order things like sour cream or guacamole on the side so you\u2019re able to control how much you\u2019d like to add!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Meal ideas:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Fajitas (protein of choice with cooked veggies)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Taco Salad<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fish tacos<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Asian food and gestational diabetes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHeading out to enjoy some Asian cuisine? Keep this cheat sheet below as a reference! \u201cAsian food\u201d covers a lot of different cuisines, but these are general tips you can follow regardless of where you\u2019re eating:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Appetizer: <\/strong>Start with a clear soup or salad that includes lean protein options like tofu, chicken, or shrimp. You can also add veggies for extra fiber and nutrients! Edamame is commonly served at many restaurants (especially those that serve sushi) and is a great appetizer or side dish that is high in protein!<\/p>\n\n\n\nEntree:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Choose steamed or stir-fried dishes that include the lean proteins listed above!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- VEGGIES! Of course we want to include some non-starchy vegetables. Common veggies you may find at asian restaurants include: bok choy, broccoli, snow peas, and mushrooms! All great options for someone with gestational diabetes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Get sauces and condiments on the side so you\u2019re able to decide how much to add<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Meal ideas:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Hibachi chicken with vegetables and white rice<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cooked sushi roll with edamame appetizer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stir fry with veggies and protein of your choice <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Indian food and gestational diabetes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIndian food can be a delicious option for those with gestational diabetes to enjoy! Here are some general tips to follow and a couple meal ideas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Appetizer:<\/strong> Protein based dishes that include lentils, chickpeas, chicken, and tofu are going to be great options for appetizers and entrees!<\/p>\n\n\n\nEntree:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Choose tandoori or grilled dishes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Non-starchy veggies like spinach, cauliflower, eggplant, and okra are common in Indian cuisines and great options for those with gestational diabetes due to their low carb and high fiber makeup.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Choose lower-sugar beverages like water, tea, or unsweetened lassi<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Meal ideas:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Chicken shorba (soup) with Tandoori chicken<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Indian salad appetizer and Chicken Tikki Masala<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Dessert: fresh fruit or dish like like kulfi<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Thai food and gestational diabetes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThai food can be a great option for those with gestational diabetes, as many of these meals include lots of veggies! Thai food usually features a combination of sweet, sour, spicy, salty, and bitter tastes. Here are a few general tips to follow if you are looking to enjoy their food with gestational diabetes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Appetizer:<\/strong> Clear soup or a salad can be a great starter. Adding protein like chicken or shrimp and even some extra veggies can be great for blood sugar control! Save the green papaya salad for after the baby is born. Unripe papaya can be toxic when pregnant. <\/p>\n\n\n\nEntree:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Choose stir-fried options that have proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots and cabbage are popular in Thai food and low in carbs, high in fiber: great for gestational diabetes!<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Order sauce on the side so you can control how much is added<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Choose lower-sugar beverages like water, tea, or unsweetened iced tea<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Meal ideas:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Tom Yum Soup with green curry<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Coconut curry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n