An Introduction to Gestational Diabetes: What You Need to Know

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with joy and excitement, but it also comes with its own set of cautions. One condition in particular which can be a concern when you’re expecting is gestational diabetes. To support your journey to becoming a mum, let’s explore exactly what gestational diabetes is, its causes, and the things you can do to help prevent it. 

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, typically in the second or third trimester. It occurs when your body can’t produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels) to meet your increased needs during pregnancy. This leads to elevated blood glucose levels, which can cause problems for both mum and baby. 

While gestational diabetes usually goes away after your baby is born, it can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. If left unmanaged, it can also lead to complications such as excessive birth weight, preterm birth and respiratory issues in newborns.

What Causes Gestational Diabetes?

The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not fully understood yet, but it’s believed to be linked to hormonal changes during pregnancy. The placenta, which supports your baby’s development, produces hormones that can interfere with our bodies’ ability to use insulin effectively. As a result, your body may require more insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check. And when the pancreas can’t meet this increased insulin demand, gestational diabetes can occur.

Several factors can increase your risk of developing gestational diabetes.

• Weight: Having a BMI of 30 or above can increase insulin resistance.
• Age: Women over the age of 40 are at a higher risk.
• Family History: A family history of diabetes, particularly among close relatives like parents or siblings, increases your chances of developing gestational diabetes.
• Previous Pregnancy Complications: If you’ve had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy or given birth to a baby weighing over 10 pounds, your risk is higher.
• Ethnicity: Women of Asian, Black, African-Caribbean and Middle Eastern descent are at a higher risk (even if you were born in the UK).
• Weight-loss Surgery: Your chances of developing gestational diabetes are higher if you’ve had a gastric bypass or other weight-loss surgery.

But don’t worry, if any of the above apply to you you should be offered a screening for gestational diabetes by your healthcare provider. 

Preventing and Reducing the Risks of Gestational Diabetes

While certain risk factors, such as age and ethnicity, of course can’t be changed, there are some steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing gestational diabetes or helping you manage it.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

If you’re planning to start a family, try to reach a healthy weight for you before you get pregnant. Once you’re pregnant, follow your healthcare provider’s guidelines for appropriate weight gain to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Try to get a mixed diet including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats. Eat small, frequent meals to help regulate your blood sugar, and avoid overly-processed foods and those high in sugars - as these can spike blood sugar levels. 

Exercise Regularly

We know it’s not always easy, but staying active during pregnancy is great as it can help control your blood glucose levels. Where possible, aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week (unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider). Walking, swimming and prenatal yoga are all good options.

Monitor Blood Sugar Levels

If you’ve been told you’re at high risk for gestational diabetes or have been diagnosed with it, your healthcare provider will likely recommend regular blood sugar monitoring. Make sure you regularly track your levels to help you and your healthcare team manage the condition more effectively.

Take Prenatal Supplements

Nutrients, such as vitamin D and magnesium, play a role in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Consider taking a prenatal supplement containing them, like Nurture, to support you and your little one’s nutritional needs. 

Attend Regular Prenatal Checkups

Make sure you attend your prenatal appointments with your healthcare provider as these allow them to carefully monitor your health and detect any early signs of gestational diabetes. Early detection can reduce the risk of complications and make your pregnancy journey smoother.

We know that gestational diabetes can be a daunting prospect, but with the right knowledge and proactive measures, it’s nothing to be worried about. By understanding the risk factors, making healthy lifestyle choices and taking prenatal supplements, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure a healthier pregnancy for you and baby. 

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