Worried About Sugar Intake During Pregnancy? Talk to a Doctor Today!

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query:

First, having a healthy, balanced diet during pregnancy supports your own well-being and promotes the healthy development of your baby. Choosing a low-sugar diet could reduce risks to both you and your baby. Consuming too many foods, whether healthy or unhealthy, can lead to excess weight gain, as it often results in eating more calories than necessary. A diet high in sugary foods can contribute to consuming excess calories without receiving the essential nutrients needed for health.

Therefore, it's important to be mindful of sugar intake. During pregnancy, it's recommended to follow the usual adult guideline for maximum daily sugar intake, which is no more than 7.5 teaspoons of sugar. You can easily find a comparison of sugar amounts in food and drinks by searching "Measuring Sugar by teaspoons" online.

Some studies suggest that pregnant women should have no more than 30g of free sugars per day, which is about seven sugar cubes. For example, a single can of cola can contain up to nine sugar cubes—exceeding the daily allowance.

Nutrition during pregnancy is a fascinating topic, and you can find more information by asking your OB-GYN, speaking with experienced friends, searching online, or reading pregnancy books.

Thanks