If you're expecting a baby, you already have experienced many changes. However, there is a common condition that some women can develop in pregnancy that isn't entirely preventable: gestational diabetes.
Gestational diabetes occurs when your body has trouble regulating its blood sugar during pregnancy. Without proper management, it can cause some complications for you and your baby. Even though gestational diabetes isn't always preventable, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk.
Eat Well
Pregnancy cravings, feeling sick, and having no desire to eat healthy foods are common complaints of pregnancy. Many women struggle to choose nutritious foods during pregnancy and may believe they are "eating for two" and filling up on foods that have plenty of sugar and fat.
However, as best as you can, it's important to center your diet on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein when pregnant. Not only are these foods nutritious, helping you to stay healthy during pregnancy, but they have less of an affect on your blood sugar.
Also, choosing healthy foods during pregnancy can limit weight gain. Since gaining a lot of weight during pregnancy can be a risk factor, reducing your weight gain, especially if you are already overweight, is key. Limit soda, fried foods, candy, ice-cream, and sugary baked goods. If you need a taste of something sweet, choose some dried fruit or make a fruit smoothie to go with your meals.
Include Fiber
Fiber is a key part of making healthy food choices. Whole fruits and vegetables have plenty of fiber, as do whole grains. One study showed that women who ate plenty of fiber every day over the course of their pregnancy reduced their risk of getting gestational diabetes by 26 percent.
Exercise
Exercise can help you stay strong during pregnancy. It can also help limit weight gain and therefore limit your risk of developing gestational diabetes. If you were not very active before pregnancy, make it a goal to walk each day. If you were active before pregnancy, continue with your activities. Make allowances for reducing your intensity and speed as you progress in your pregnancy, but don't be worried about exercise hurting your baby. It is good for baby and for mom to stay active.
Some healthy, active pregnant women are still shocked to discover they have GD. There are other risk factors you can't control, including your race, your age, and your family history of diabetes.
For more information visit Lifecycles OB/GYN, PC's web page.
Share26 July 2017
Hi there, my name is Judy Donovan. Welcome to my website about gynecology. When I was a young adult, I did not take my health seriously. I felt that I would have years before I had to start worrying about female health concerns. Unfortunately, I did not have that much time before I started exhibiting symptoms pointing to a women’s health condition. I sought help from my local gynecologist to receive a diagnosis and treatment plan. I created this website to help other women embrace the importance of preventive health care. Please feel free to come by my site daily to learn more.
