Nutrition, Pregnancy, and Preexisting Diabetes: Exploring What Has Changed and What Remains the Same

Nutrition is a key component in the management of pregnancy. If diabetes is also involved, the maternal physiological and hormonal changes can have a profound effect on glycemic levels. Eating habits, which include what and how foods are consumed, and even culture are other contributing factors that influence maternal and fetal outcomes. Most nutrition recommendations can be applied to all pregnancies; however, adjustments may be necessary if diabetes predated the pregnancy. This article provides an update, addressing both what has and has not changed in recent years in the nutrition management of pregnancy and preexisting diabetes.