Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy, typically in the second or third trimester. It can lead to higher-than-normal blood sugar levels posing, risks to both the mother and the baby. Complications of gestational diabetes include an increased risk of preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs like the kidneys. It can also lead to macrosomia, where the baby grows larger than usual, increasing the risk of birth injuries and the need for a caesarean delivery. Additionally, gestational diabetes can predispose both the mother and the child to develop type 2 diabetes later in life. Here, we discuss what an expecting mother can do to prevent gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
Why is monitoring blood sugar regularly during pregnancy important?
Gestational diabetes does not show any specific symptoms. Doctors can diagnose it by getting regular blood glucose tests from 24 weeks of pregnancy onward. The signs of gestational diabetes in the third trimester are similar to the symptoms of diabetes. For instance, excessive urination and thirst, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss or gain.
Frequent monitoring of blood sugar helps you and your doctor identify any potential problems with your blood sugar control early on. Based on your blood sugar readings, your doctor can adjust your diet, exercise routine, or medication (if needed) to keep your blood sugar in a healthy range. Frequent monitoring is necessary for women at high risk of developing GDM.
Can dietary changes help in avoiding gestational diabetes in pregnancy?
Many research studies suggest that dietary patterns can influence GDM before and during pregnancy. For example, consuming a lot of sugar-sweetened beverages can increase the risk of GDM. On the other hand, certain dietary patterns can reduce the relative risk of GDM by 15 to 38%. These patterns are the Mediterranean diet, and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet.
The mediterranean diet is plant-based diet. It uses extra virgin oil, nuts, vegetables, and fruits. Studies state that this diet reduces the risk of GDM and the associated adverse outcomes.
As per the DASH diet, women should consume unprocessed or minimally processed foods. These foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. It does not allow the intake of high-energy-dense, high-fat, and high-sugar foods. It also discourages the consumption of foods high in sodium. The DASH diet has high fibre, unsaturated fats, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Studies suggest consuming the DASH diet by an expecting mother with GDM improves pregnancy outcomes.
How can physical exercise benefit gestational diabetes in pregnancy?
One of the natural ways to prevent gestational diabetes is to be physically active. Physical exercise during pregnancy can have positive effects on the mother as well as the baby. Scientific evidence points out that physical exercise during pregnancy can reduce the development of GDM by 31%. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends that pregnant women spend three to four times per week doing 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity. You can do brisk walking, swim, or play with children.
Before you plan your pregnancy, it is best to make lifestyle interventions for weight management. To avoid GDM during pregnancy, it is good to get regular blood glucose tests. Further, you can keep blood glucose levels in check through physical exercise and a dietician-recommended diet.
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