*Trigger warning* Mention of disordered eating and miscarriage in this episode.   This is a logical train of thought after a diagnosis of gestational diabetes:   I have high blood sugar → carbs raise blood sugar → I should reduce my carb intake → the keto diet is low carb → keto will help me keep my blood sugar lower and be the best way to manage gestational diabetes   It all seems to check out.   But…..   Nutrition doesn't always follow logic.   And actually, following the keto diet, or just a low carb diet, could be very risky.   Studies measuring high vs low carb intake in mothers with GD have found that those with a diet more abundant in carbs achieve better outcomes.    Lower is not always better. Blood sugar is supposed to go up after eating. When kept within target range, there hasn't been any benefit found to be associated with keeping lower average blood sugar levels. Plus, keto introduces the risk of hypoglycaemia (particularly if you take insulin), which could lead to some complications during pregnancy and birth.   By cutting out the majority of a whole food group, you are also likely to compromise your overall nutritional intake. You need to be getting plenty of calories, micronutrients and fibre to grow a healthy baby!   And if following this diet leads to weight loss, that is not something to be celebrated - regardless of your BMI. It is a warning sign that you and bub aren't getting what you need and carries the risk of growth restriction, pre-term birth and potential complications.   Lastly, I flatly hate the marketing around it all and keto products at the supermarket etc. I saw keto peanut butter the other day - it is all just INSANE.  (For the record, peanut butter is already almost 100% a fat, therefore is “keto” by default, no special formulation needed). I hate to be cynical, but it's diet culture literally just taking your money.   Basically, I'm not a fan.   Anyway, the latest episode on the Gestational Diabetes Club podcast is an interview with the lovely Alyce, who is a past client, currently going through her second GD pregnancy.    She talks about her experience with GD in her first pregnancy and birth (before we crossed paths), while dabbling in the keto diet and experiencing wild swings from hyper to hypo glycaemia.   It's such a good listen.   x    

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Disclaimer: 

The information in this podcast is provided for informational and educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for individualised medical and nutrition advice. Please speak to your healthcare team before making any changes to your diet and lifestyle. Helena (and any guests) do not accept liability for any harm or damages that occur from following suggestions in these podcast episodes.