With the number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases growing, it’s important to take steps NOW to prepare for a 14-day self-quarantine or out-of-stock issues at your regular grocery store. It’s even more important when you have gestational diabetes. This isn’t like hunkering down and preparing for a major blizzard where you might lose power. It’s probably safe to assume that you’ll have power and access to all appliances. Use this gestational diabetes Coronavirus stockpile guide to help you prepare for a Coronavirus quarantine.
Coronavirus Stockpile Guide
- Load up the freezer with frozen fruits & non-starchy vegetables. Veggies can be added to almost anything to help fill you up and get fiber & nutrients. And frozen fruits are great for making smoothies. Start with skim milk or an alternative milk and add frozen fruit, protein powder, and a few ice cubes.
- Frozen protein – chicken, lean beef, salmon, and shrimp are great options.
- Alternative pastas such as chickpea pasta, black bean pasta, or lentil pasta. These pastas are lower in carbs and higher in both fiber AND protein than traditional pasta or even whole wheat pasta. One of the alternative pastas with a can of roasted tomatoes and little parmesan would make a great meal. Feel free to add veggies too. See table below.
- Other protein sources like tuna, tofu, veggie burgers, eggs, beans, lentils, and chickpeas are great too!
- Sources of calcium such as dairy products (milk, yogurt, and cheese) or alternative milks. Always check the label on alternative milks. Some have added calcium, but others do not. Greek yogurt is higher in protein, so that might be a good option to consider. And how could we forget string cheese. Note: cottage cheese is a good source of protein, but it’s not a good source of calcium.
- Nuts & nut butters are a source of protein and healthy fats. You can never go wrong with peanut butter, but also consider almond butter as well. An apple with almond butter is one of my favorite snacks. It’s also great on whole wheat toast.
- Whole wheat bread. It freezes well and is a good source of fiber.
- GD friendly snacks, such as roasted/flavored broad beans or trail mix.
- Pantry staples such as marinara sauce, canned tomatoes, and soups are great to have on-hand.
- Fresh fruits & vegetables with a long shelf life, such as apples, oranges/clementines, baby carrots, celery, and potatoes are also good options.
Planning ahead makes all the difference. I don’t want you to get into a situation where you’re stuck at home and end up eating whatever happens to be nearby.
If you’re feeling up to it, start making meals now for the freezer. These glass freezer containers are perfect for meal-prepping.
More ideas of what to eat with gestational diabetes can be found on the gestational diabetes food list. What other ideas have you come up with? Let me know in the comments below.
