Can I eat glutinous rice cake if I have high blood sugar after pregnancy?

Jul 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

After becoming pregnant, I often ate some desserts, and now my blood sugar test results are high. Can I eat rice cakes (nian gao) if I have high blood sugar during pregnancy?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

For pregnant women with diabetes or gestational diabetes, it is generally recommended to limit consumption of foods with a high glycemic index, including glutinous rice cake (nian gao).

During pregnancy, if blood sugar levels are elevated, dietary management is important, as high blood sugar can have adverse effects on the health of both mother and baby. Glutinous rice cake is primarily made from glutinous rice flour, which contains a high amount of starch that is converted into glucose after digestion and may lead to increased blood sugar levels.

However, this does not mean glutinous rice cake must be completely avoided. Low-sugar or sugar-free varieties can be selected and consumed as part of the staple food, with a corresponding reduction in intake of other carbohydrates. At the same time, it is advisable to consume glutinous rice cake together with other low glycemic index foods to help slow the rise in blood sugar levels. It is best to develop a dietary plan under the guidance of a physician.