Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and in most cases, subsides after childbirth. The increased blood sugar levels can have an impact on the child as well as the mother. It is important that you keep a check on your blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Read on to know some of the tips that help to lower the risks of gestational diabetes.
Updated Aug 14, 2023 | 01:18 PM IST
Tips to lower the risks of developing gestational diabetes
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Pregnancy is a period when one has to be very careful about their health. Not just diabetes, a lot of pregnant women also develop high blood pressure. Increased blood pressure not just affects the mother but also the baby. Therefore, it is extremely important that you’re careful about your blood pressure as well as your blood sugar levels.
Here, take a look at some tips that can help lower the risks of gestational diabetes.
Body Weight
It is important that you keep your body weight in check during pregnancy. Being overweight increases your risks of high blood sugar. Exercise and workout regularly with caution during pregnancy to maintain a healthy body weight.
Balanced Diet
Your diet plays a very important role in your blood sugar levels. Hence, it is very important that you eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre, proteins and healthy fats. All of these help to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and lower the risks of gestational diabetes.
Sugary Foods
Limit the intake of sugary foods and beverages. These foods tend to spike your blood sugar levels, eventually leading to gestational diabetes. Choose unsweetened drinks, herbal tea and water instead.
Portion Size
It is very important that you keep a check on your portions when eating your meals. Keeping a check on your portions can prevent you from overeating, thereby, preventing excessive weight gain during pregnancy.
Exercise Regularly
Even when you’re pregnant, make sure that you perform some form of moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. This will not just weight gain but also lower the risks of developing gestational diabetes.
Carbohydrate Intake
Avoid the consumption of simple carbohydrates, instead choose complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and legumes in your diet. These are digested slowly which eventually helps in maintaining your blood sugar levels and doesn’t spike it.
Sleep well
It is important that your sleep well because a lack of it can increase your risk of gestational diabetes. Make sure you get atleast 7-8 hours of sleep so as to maintain your hormonal balance and also your overall health during pregnancy.
Prenatal Care
It is very important that you go for regular check-ups. This can help you monitor your as well as your baby’s health. Prenatal check-ups are also important to check for gestational diabetes. However, even if you develop the conditions, prenatal care can help you to manage it well without letting it affect you or your baby’s health.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
