GAPS Diet Do’s & Don’ts During Pregnancy
The Full GAPS diet can be a valuable dietary approach during pregnancy, as it focuses on nourishing the body with nutrient-dense foods and supports gut health.
It’s essential to choose Full GAPS over the Introductory Phase during pregnancy to avoid potential detoxification risks. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that your dietary choices align with your individual needs and the health of your developing baby. Remember, the healthiest pregnancy diet is one that prioritizes the well-being of both you and your little one.
Hi, I’m Gina! I’m a Certified GAPS Coach and soon to be Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) who helps people add nutrient dense & delicious foods to their diet befoer, during & after pregnancy. I’d love to meet you!
Understanding the GAPS Diet
The GAPS diet, developed by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, is designed to heal and seal the gut lining, promoting overall health and well-being. It focuses on removing foods that can be problematic for the gut, such as processed foods, grains, and sugars, while emphasizing nutrient-dense, whole foods.
The Full GAPS diet consists of three stages: Introduction, Full GAPS, and Maintenance. Each stage serves a specific purpose in healing the gut, but during pregnancy, it's important to exercise caution and prioritize the Full GAPS stage over the Introduction stage.
Why Choose Full GAPS Over Intro During Pregnancy?
Avoiding Detoxification Overload: The Intro phase of the GAPS diet is known to be detoxifying. It's intended to eliminate toxins and pathogens from the body, which can be beneficial for many individuals. However, during pregnancy, this intense detoxification can pose risks. When toxins are released from the mother's body, they may be passed to the developing baby, potentially causing harm.
Maintaining Nutrient Balance: Pregnancy is a time when the body needs an abundance of nutrients to support fetal development. The Full GAPS diet focuses on nutrient-dense foods like bone broth, organic meats, vegetables, and healthy fats. This helps ensure that both the mother and baby receive essential vitamins and minerals necessary for growth and health.
Balancing Blood Sugar: The Intro phase of the GAPS diet can be low in carbohydrates, which may lead to unstable blood sugar levels. This can be particularly problematic during pregnancy, as stable blood sugar is vital for the well-being of both the mother and baby. Full GAPS includes a wider variety of carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables, making it a more balanced choice.
I’m here to help you add in delicious, nutrient dense foods to your diet during pregnancy.
How to Follow Full GAPS During Pregnancy
Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods: Emphasize foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients like:
Eggs yolks (from pasture-raised chickens)
Organ meats
Meat stock & warming stews with well-cooked veggies
Quality proteins (such as grass-fed meats and wild-caught fish), and fats (like ghee, tallow, lard, coconut oil, and olive oil) into your meals
Homemade fermented dairy or coconut kefir, yogurt & cream
Plenty of organic vegetables - focus on cooked vegetables & warm meals, but raw is okay as tolerated
Sauerkraut, vegetable medley & other fermented foods
Include Fermented Foods: Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kefir, and yogurt can provide beneficial probiotics that support getting your gut in balance while you grow your baby. These can be safely included in your Full GAPS diet.
Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is crucial during pregnancy. Drink plenty of water with a touch of mineral salt and herbal teas to maintain proper hydration levels.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's signals and cravings. If you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms while following the Full GAPS diet, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Consult a Healthcare Provider: Before making any dietary changes during pregnancy, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. They can assess your individual needs and help you make informed choices.
Find out more about GAPS during pregnancy in Dr. Natasha’s yellow book! This post is not a substitute for dietary advice.
Looking for someone to coach you through GAPS during your pregnancy?
“Gina sat down with me and my husband and explained how different GAPS foods could help support me while navigating gut issues during my 2nd trimester. She helped me figure out easy meal prep that took care of me through my pregnancy.”
