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Gestational Diabetes

According to the American Diabetes Association, gestational diabetes is a condition that affects approximately seven percent of pregnant women in the United States. Gestational diabetes is when women who have never had diabetes before have high blood sugar (glucose) levels during pregnancy.

While seven percent may seem small, gestational diabetes is a serious condition since it affects both baby and mom. The babies of women with gestational diabetes are at increased risk for being very large and needing a cesarean section delivery. Almost half of women with gestational diabetes during pregnancy go on to develop type 2 diabetes within 5 years. For these reasons and others, it is important to prevent gestational diabetes and have your doctor watch your blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

To avoid and manage gestational diabetes it is essential to:

  • Get rid of excess weight prior to pregnancy
  • Not gain excess weight during pregnancy
  • Exercise regularly
  • Eat a healthy diet

Read on for tips on preventing gestational diabetes for your health and your baby’s health:

  • Choose nourishing, whole foods. This includes eating carbohydrates that are good mix of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans. Including lean sources of protein like chicken, beans, salmon and canned tuna. Looking out for fat by choosing low-fat or nonfat foods where possible.
  • Read labels. These are your guides as to how much of a certain nutrient a product contains. In particular you should pay attention to protein, carbohydrates, fiber and fat.
  • Avoid junk food. These are typically high in calories and low in the key nutrients that are essential to help keep you and your baby healthy.
  • Snack smart. Including small snacks in between meals throughout the day helps keep blood sugar steady. Choose fresh fruits or vegetables like apples, pears, grapes or cut bell peppers over juice which can be higher in sugar content.
  • Be active. This will help to maintain any excess weight gain and combat insulin resistance. Check with your physician before starting an exercise regimen.