Question from Tampa, Florida, USA:

I am 27, have had type 2 diabetes for a little over a year which is well-controlled (hemoglobin A1c of about 5%) with twice daily pre-mixed insulin, and I have recently found out that I am eight weeks pregnant. I adjust my diet and exercise according to my blood sugars, so why is my obstetrician telling me that I can no longer eat: bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, bananas, tomatoes, onions, peas, lentils, lima beans, etc.? He said I could eat fruit, vegetables, salads, chicken, fish, and meat. He said I could get all of my carbs from fruit, and that my diet should be 50% protein, 30% complex carbs (from fruit only) and 20% “other”. Won’t all that protein contribute to kidney damage? I know I need more protein for the baby, but this diet just seems extreme to me.

I know these foods are carbohydrates, and that they are metabolized differently (as simpler sugars), but I just don’t think it sounds healthy to avoid these foods at all times for the next seven months! I agree that they should be moderated, as I know they can raise blood sugar, faster, but with my insulin, don’t I need a little simple carb with a meal? I am not talking about four slices of bread, but a sandwich at lunch doesn’t seem like it should be that much of a risk. Is it? I weigh and measure all of my portions, so I never eat more than I should.