Study Suggests Women Trying to Conceive Should Limit Their Intake of Potatoes

A new study suggests that women who are planning a pregnancy, might be wise to limit their intake of potatoes, after finding that those who ate more of the starchy vegetable prior to conceiving were more likely to develop gestational diabetes while pregnant.

Throughout the study, which analysed data from more than 15,000 women over a 10 year period, out of 21,693 pregnancies, there were 854 cases of gestational diabetes.

“We found that a diet with a higher level of potato consumption before pregnancy was related to a greater risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy,” said study author Dr. Cuilin Zhang, senior investigator in the Epidemiology Branch of the Division of Intramural Population Health Research at NIH’s Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

But experts don’t recommend cutting the humble spud out of your diet completely. Instead you should think about cutting you potato intake down to just once a week.

Dr. Minisha Sood, director of inpatient diabetes at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, explains:

“A potato does contain healthful nutrients. Vitamin C and potassium and a small amount of dietary fiber. But it’s all about the dose. I think moderate consumption is still fine but not too high. From our data, we show if they consume one serving per week then they’re still okay, but if they consume two or more servings, there’s an increased risk for gestational diabetes.”

Experts suggest substituting potatoes with other vegetables, leafy greens, legumes, or whole grain foods, to help lower their risk of developing gestational diabetes.

Craving mashed potato? Try cauliflower instead.

Have a hankering for potato chips? Experts recommend tucking into healthier versions such as quinoa chips, kale chips or lentil chips instead.

For more information about gestational diabetes visit www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Disclaimer: The information and materials on this Site are made available on the understanding that they do not constitute professional or expert advice. If you have any concerns about your health contact your medical practitoner.