Women can develop what’s called gestational diabetes during pregnancy, but some women enter into pregnancy with pre-existing diabetes. They may have Type 2 diabetes or, like me, have autoimmune Type 1 diabetes. Each type has its own reason of origin and presents its own challenges, but diabetics of all kinds may face some of the same struggles while carrying a precious little one. Personally, I struggled with blood sugar fluctuations that were worsened by hormonal changes. Whether high or low sugar, I found things that were helpful and also some things that were generally comforting to my body. That being said, before using new products, always check with your physician, as each diabetic’s pregnancy journey can be completely different.
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4.8 star rating
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Whole food mocktails
Alcohol was immediately a thing of the past when learning of my pregnancy. So, when we normally would come up with fun margarita or bloody Mary recipes, I wanted an alternative that was nonalcoholic. However, sugary mixes were definitely not an option for me, and wouldn’t have been even if I weren’t diabetic. Coming across this book was like striking gold! These mocktail recipes use whole foods and all natural sweeteners, which are far better on my blood sugar. Many of the recipes are incredibly easy, with numerous options that are gluten-free, since I also have celiac disease. My favorite might be the virgin Mary, since pre-pregnancy I was a huge bloody Mary fan. I’ll continue to use these recipes even after breast-feeding.
What People Are Saying
“I love this book. I haven’t found a recipe I don’t like yet. They’re all delicious. I’ve used it to make party drinks for friends who don’t drink alcohol too. Everyone has like the recipes.”
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4.4 star rating
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Two pockets
Many Type 1 diabetics wear an insulin pump. This means that there is an electronic device connected to the body via tubing to continuously deliver insulin. That being said, having pockets is a lifesaver! When searching for maternity clothes, I look for items, whether shirts or pants, that could accommodate my pump. This pair of leggings is a go-to, and colored with non-toxic dyes, while the fabric is squat-proof and see-through proof. The fabric is extra stretchy, so it’s easy to move around, all while accommodating your growing baby bump. In the summer, these are a nice option, because the material is also moisture-wicking to keep the body dry. Two pockets are included, one for your phone and one for the pump.
What People Are Saying
“I love these maternity leggings- I now have two pair! I’m 32 weeks pregnant, 5’4 & 165 pounds and the small fits well.”
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4.9 star rating
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Hypoallergenic
If you already suffer from diabetic dry skin, it might get a little bit worse during pregnancy. But having the right products on hand can make a world of difference. Armed with a balance of skin essentials, this kit has a body wash that cleanses delicately without drying, while also leaving behind relaxing scents of geranium, bergamot and mandarin orange. The belly butter can be applied to the stomach to prevent stretch marks, and the plant-derived ingredients may also sooth the itching that comes along with the stretching belly. Finally, a body brush is used to help exfoliate away any dead skin and may even help smooth out cellulite. The set is hypoallergenic, vegan, cruelty-free and synthetic fragrance-free. It’s been verified by the Environmental Working Group.
What People Are Saying
“I purchased the products in this kit separately when I was pregnant and loved using them at night after a shower as a form of self-care and to keep the itchy skin/stretch marks at bay. I loved these so much, I now gift this kit to friends.”
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4.6 star rating
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Multiple blade styles
Sometimes, the biggest deterrent for eating vegetables is just preparing them! When veggies are washed and conveniently sliced up, you may be more likely to grab some cucumbers and toss them with olive oil and garlic powder than you would be to grab a less healthy snack. It takes work to get all the needed veggies throughout the day. A veggie chopper like this one gives you the ability to prepare them in a wide variation of ways, whether it be shredded, chopped, diced or grated. You can even utilize the lemon squeezer to create a refreshing glass of hydrating lemonade.
What People Are Saying
“This chopper is very good and very convenient.”
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4.6 star rating
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Mineral-based
Skin may become more sensitive to sunlight during pregnancy, so if you’re not big on wearing sunscreen, now is the time to start! Experts also recommend avoiding chemically-based sunscreens, opting for safer mineral ingredients, such as zinc oxide. Titanium dioxide is a naturally-occurring mineral in this sunscreen, helping to create SPF 30 protection against UVA and UVB rays. Zinc oxide serves as a barrier to reflect the sun’s rays. Antioxidants such as blueberry and green tea are incorporated to protect from free radicals. Zinc oxide or mineral sunscreens have improved greatly, and tend to be less cakey when applied.
What People Are Saying
“This spf reminds me of supergoop mattescreen!! Really love the skin tint, decent coverage. has a nice smell to it also. I will be getting this from now on!”
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4.2 star rating
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Contains xylitol
For about six years, I’ve been incorporating probiotics into my dental care. I’ve done this through dental probiotic tablets and toothpaste. During pregnancy, I opted for toothpaste, which uses activated charcoal, coconut oil and a strain of probiotics to help combat bad bacteria in the mouth. Since using oral probiotic products, my dental reports have been far more positive. Keep in mind, if you have pups around, xylitol is also in this toothpaste, so you’ll want to keep it in a secure place with absolutely no chance of them getting to it, because it can be lethal to four-legged furry friends. If you have any questions about ingredients within the toothpaste, bring them with you to your doctor so they can give you the official go-ahead to use it. Although the description says it’s safe enough to eat, I never swallow the product.
What People Are Saying
“I have had a good experience with this toothpaste and continue to use it – but for my morning brush leaving the evening to my traditional sensitive teeth fluoridated toothpaste.”
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4.5 star rating
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Organic
Prenatal vitamins are a general pregnancy essential. Your physician can help you pick out an option that fits your nutritional needs. For my pregnancy, the right choice has been Garden of Life‘s Raw Prenatal Vitamin, which is packed with organically-grown fruits and vegetables and digestive probiotics. Everyone is different, but I have had no struggle with tummy issues when taking these. A hefty 800 mcg’s of folate are incorporated to support healthy neural tube development. Baby’s brain and spinal cord develop from the neural tube at just six weeks, so that neural tube is one extremely important element!
What People Are Saying
“Definitely try this. A lot of prenatals made me nauseous. This was easily digested and made me feel great during pregnancy and nursing!”
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4.8 star rating
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Organic
Hormones are all over the place during pregnancy, and this can dramatically impact those with diabetes, as insulin is a hormone itself. One struggle for myself was low blood sugar. The first trimester was a fight of getting up in the middle of the night trying to bring up blood sugars from numbers as low as the 30s. This can be extremely dangerous for both mom and baby. Since I was also battling nausea, I had to find something that didn’t turn my stomach too much, and these organic Sesame Street-themed juice boxes were perfect. Each one contains a precise 13 carbohydrates, so sometimes one–potentially two–would do the trick. The typical recommendation for low blood sugar is to consume 15 carbohydrates, then wait 15 minutes and check your blood sugar again. Check with your doctor about your blood sugar correction recommendations.
What People Are Saying
“This size is the perfect amount of carbs for when my Type 1 Diabetic has a sugar low. I keep this product handy. It takes the guessing or measuring out of the process so I can help my son ASAP. Dare I say, “this product is a life saver.”
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4.3 star rating
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Multiple colors available
Gastric reflux was something that I already struggled with before pregnancy, but it certainly worsened as I entered my second trimester. My original motivation to purchase a body pillow was to slightly elevate myself as I slept to avoid the burning sensation in my esophagus. However, I enjoy several more benefits, such as hip and knee pain relief, while also being able to support my growing baby bump. There are many other options available, whether on Amazon or other sites, but I found this one to be sufficient for my needs.
What People Are Saying
“This is amazing. I sleep like a log with this, able to put my arm under it and not feel the pressure or pain of having my arm fall asleep. I don’t have to move my pillow all over the place either”
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4.1 star rating
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BPA free
Type 1 diabetes already creates hydration challenges, since whenever blood sugar may spike, for whatever reason, the kidneys begin to pull water from the body to flush out excess sugar. Adding a double punch to diabetic mamas, water needs also increase during pregnancy to “support fetal development and maternal health.” As simple as it sounds, having a nice water bottle that keeps things cold while preventing leaking can be a good incentive to carry around your favorite hydrating drink. The BPA-free bottle holds 24 ounces of liquid, making it easy to check off your recommended amount of fluids for the day. Multiple gorgeous colors are available.
What People Are Saying
“Very durable water bottle will keep your drink cold or hot and doesn’t have that metal after taste like other bottles.”
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4.6 star rating
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Hard cover
Tracking food is useful for a multitude of reasons other than losing weight. Maybe you’re trying to determine if you have a food sensitivity or allergy, or as a Type 1 diabetic, you’re trying to see which foods work best with your blood sugar. That is exactly why I utilize a food journal during my pregnancy. Foods affect me quite differently than they did before I became pregnant, so recording what I eat, what causes blood sugar spikes and what results in low blood sugar has become essential. This is a beautiful, spiral-bound hard cover journal with gold foil details, and there are many styles to pick from. Other fun additions include stickers, pockets and a lovely gift box. You can bypass the portions that discuss body measurements, and just utilize this for food tracking during your pregnancy.
What People Are Saying
“It’s quality. Made very well. Priced right. Someone put a lot of thought to make this planner. The best planner ever.”
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4.4 star rating
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Ventilated seat
Experts recommend pregnant women exercise about 30 minutes every day, as long as your doctor gives you the go-ahead. To clarify, you should always check with your doctor about the types of exercise that are the right fit for your pregnancy. Sometimes, there are indications that you actually should not exercise, so the guideline is to work closely with your physician. For me, a stationary bike was easily accessible and not too strenuous. The risk of falling on a regular bike was too great to take the risk. For pregnancy, during and after, a stationary bike is my go-to for balancing blood sugar. This particular model is a reputable brand with a ventilated seat and a water bottle holder, so you can be sure you’ll stay hydrated.
What People Are Saying
“This bike is amazing. The seat is a little uncomfortable but I will be getting a gel seat for it.”
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5 star rating
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Low carb
Getting enough protein can be a struggle for anyone, especially those who have food aversions or nausea. Protein is essential for your baby’s growth, and you should be getting at least 71 grams a day. Lean meat like chicken can be a great source. In the past, I always enjoyed Wilde Chicken Chips, which are low-carb and gluten and grain-free. One serving packs in 10g of protein with natural chicken breast, egg whites and bone broth. Salt and vinegar is my preferred flavor during pregnancy.
What People Are Saying
“I choose these over regular potato chips now! Protein content is excellent and the flavor is amazing! I will definitely keep purchasing!”
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4.4 star rating
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Wholesome recipes
Healthy eating is becoming such a common topic, and most of us have a pretty good idea of how to get in adequate nutrients. But I learned that having a good cookbook on hand during pregnancy helped inspire breakfast, lunch and dinner when I was struggling to think of foods that sounded good. This guide was a go-to, and although recipes are largely plant-based, I still ate meat. A medical doctor who specializes in OB/GYN and gynecology along with a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer, and nutrition and fitness consultant composed this book, with a foreword from Jessica Alba. The book dives deep into nutritional needs of babies and how much of certain things need to be consumed in a day. The most recent pregnancy research, symptoms and tips have been incorporated along with real mom advice. Over 100 impressive recipes are in the book, some classic and some more on the modern side. I particularly liked guidance on what is most important to buy organic.
What People Are Saying
“I love that this book has great advice on what to eat while pregnant, but also talks about how you’ll be feeling each week.”
