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Cristopher
Oliver

how much sugar is too much in pregnancy?

i know that we should care about our diet in pregnancy as any food item that contains additives and bacteria can harm mother and fetus as well. my wife is 19 week pregnant and she is big sweet lover. in whole day she is eating many chocolates, ice creams and sweets. i am really worried about her sugar intake. so please tell me how much sugar is too much in pregnancy?

8 months ago

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Nandini Moulik | Aug 26 2011

It is natural for women to develop cravings for sweet foods during pregnancy. But, if your wife is overweight or obese, then she should limit the sugar intake. Weight gain is desirable during pregnancy, but not above certain levels. Women with normal BMI (Body Mass Index) should gain 25-35 pounds during pregnancy and those with high BMI, the weight gain should be within 15-25 pounds.

As long as your wife maintains normal body weight and blood sugar levels, then there is no harm in taking sugary foods in moderate amounts. Right amount of sugar intake varies with the metabolic rate of women. Additional 300 calories is required per day during pregnancy, but overeating of sugary foods develops the risk of abrupt weight gain and high blood sugar levels. Check whether your wife is having Gestational diabetes or Type II Diabetes or not. Normal blood sugar levels during pregnancy must be > 95mg/dL in fasting condition and >145 mg/dL post prandial (2 hours after meal). Doctors will judge other factors and advise testing of blood sugar levels. If tests reveal high blood sugar levels, she has to cut down her carbohydrate intake and avoid sugary delicacies.

Weight gain during pregnancy can lead to high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, backaches, leg pain, periodontal disease and delivery complications. Dieting is not advised during pregnancy, but excessive intake of sugar and carbohydrates can be dangerous. Excessive body weight and high blood sugar levels can result in overweight babies (Macrosomia) and pose risks during delivery. The baby is also at the risk of developing childhood obesity. Moderate sugar consumption is advised even if your wife is maintaining normal physical parameters as it can pose certain risks in the advanced stages of pregnancy.