Diet · Month 6 · Weeks 23–26
6th month pregnancy diet chart
The sixth month is when the glucose tolerance test for gestational diabetes is usually done (24–28 weeks). Eating for steady blood sugar — whole grains, protein and fibre at every meal, fewer sweets and refined snacks — is good for everyone, whatever the test result. Swelling and heartburn may also start now.
Reviewed by Garbh Katha editorial team · updated
Gestational diabetes is more common in South Asian women, which is why universal testing is recommended in India. A diagnosis is not a failure, and it is usually managed first with diet and activity. Building the habit now of half a plate of vegetables, a quarter protein and a quarter whole grain makes any later changes much easier.
Nutrients to focus on in month 6
- Complex carbohydrates: Millets, whole wheat and dals release energy slowly and avoid sugar spikes.
- Protein at every meal: Slows sugar absorption and keeps you full.
- Iron: Haemoglobin is often rechecked around 28 weeks; keep stores up.
Indian foods to eat this month
- Jowar, bajra, ragi and brown rice — Lower glycaemic choices than refined rice and maida.
- Dal, chana, paneer or eggs with each meal — Protein to balance carbohydrates.
- Non-starchy vegetables — bhindi, karela, beans, cabbage — Fibre and volume with few calories.
- Whole fruit rather than juice — Fibre slows sugar release.
- Buttermilk and plain curd — Cooling, low-sugar drinks for warm days.
What to avoid or limit
- Fruit juices, cold drinks and sweetened lassi
- Maida-based bakery snacks, biscuits and namkeen in large amounts
- Large portions of white rice at one meal
- Very salty pickles and papad if swelling is a problem
Sample vegetarian meal plan for month 6
| Time | What to eat |
|---|---|
| On waking | Warm water and soaked nuts |
| Breakfast | Moong dal chilla with curd, or vegetable oats upma |
| Mid-morning | An apple or pear with a few almonds |
| Lunch | Jowar roti, dal, bhindi or beans sabzi, salad, buttermilk |
| Evening | Roasted chana or a besan dhokla piece |
| Dinner | Small portion of brown rice or roti with paneer curry and vegetables |
Tips for this month
- Fill half the plate with vegetables
- Walk for 10–15 minutes after meals if your doctor agrees
- Follow fasting instructions for your glucose test exactly
6th month diet: common questions
What should I eat before the glucose test?
Follow your clinic's instructions — some ask you to fast overnight, others do not. Do not change your diet drastically in the days before; the test is meant to reflect normal conditions.
Can I eat sweets in the 6th month?
Occasional small portions are fine for most women. If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, your doctor or dietitian will give you a specific plan.
Which foods reduce swelling in pregnancy?
No food cures swelling, but limiting very salty foods, staying hydrated and resting with feet up help. Sudden swelling of face or hands needs urgent review.