One of the most amazing experiences in life is pregnancy; it is a time of wonder, excitement and awe-inspiring connection that deepens as new life develops inside a women. Pregnancy unfolds with all the love and courage needed to raise a new soul, from the first glimmer of hope to the thrilling excitement of finally meeting the little one.
Nutrition is vital for motherIt is health as well as the growth and development of the baby. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Rakshita Mehra, Nutritionist at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals in Noida, said, “The foundation for a successful pregnancy, smooth delivery and ideal growth of the baby is laid by proper nutrition during pregnancy. »
Pregnancy causes gestational disorders diabetes mellitus (GDM), a type of diabetes that often disappears after childbirth. Rakshita Mehra explained: “This happens when the body’s production of insulin is insufficient to meet the increasing demands of pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is caused by hormonal fluctuations that occur during pregnancy. Hormones produced by the placenta help the baby grow, but can also reduce the sensitivity of maternal cells to insulin. Some women have high blood sugar because their pancreas is unable to produce enough extra insulin. Gestational diabetes often has no symptoms.
However, according to Rakshita Mehra, some women might experience:
- Polydipsia – An increase in thirst
- Polyuria – Urinating a lot
- Weariness and fatigue
- Vision becomes blurry
She added: “For most women, managing gestational diabetes through lifestyle changes is very effective and can significantly reduce the risks to mother and baby. To support new moms throughout their journey, let’s explore key strategies for managing gestational diabetes during pregnancy, emphasizing the power of love, self-care, and resilience.
1. Key Nutritional Changes
The key to treating gestational diabetes is eating a balanced diet. By limiting carbohydrate intake, encouraging healthy fats and proteins, and emphasizing nutrient-dense foods, the goal is to stabilize blood sugar levels. Rakshita Mehra advised –
- Pay attention to complex carbohydrates: Whole grains, legumes, and vegetables are examples of complex carbohydrates that help keep blood sugar levels stable because they digest slowly. Choose complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, oats, quinoa and low-glycemic legumes. These foods help keep blood sugar levels stable by gradually releasing glucose. Since carbohydrates have the greatest effect on blood sugar levels, it is essential to track carbohydrate intake during meals.
- Small regular meals: Eating smaller meals every three to four hours will help keep blood sugar levels stable and prevent spikes. Regular meals help the body manage nutrients efficiently, while avoiding large portions of carbohydrates at one time can prevent blood sugar levels from rising.
- Select foods rich in dietary fiber and protein: Since fiber slows digestion, it can help regulate blood sugar levels. Adding fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, beans, lentils, and vegetables, plays an important role during pregnancy. In addition, fiber facilitates digestion, thus reducing frequent discomforts during pregnancy such as constipation. Including a source of protein in every meal and snack helps stabilize blood sugar levels and control hunger.
- Limit refined and sugary foods: Avoid meals that quickly raise blood sugar levels, such as white bread, soda, candy, and other refined carbohydrates.
- Maintain hydration: Adequate hydration promotes metabolic processes and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
2. Regular exercise
Rakshita Mehra said: “Another key pillar of managing GDM is exercise, which gives mums the confidence to take control of their health. Increased physical exercise lowers blood sugar and increases energy levels by helping the body use insulin more efficiently.
Options for exercising safely:
- Walk: Especially after meals, a daily gentle walk can help control blood sugar levels.
- Yoga during pregnancy: Yoga can help regulate blood sugar, improve circulation and reduce stress.
Before starting or continuing an exercise routine, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to ensure it is safe and appropriate.
3. Manage stress
In addition to the range of emotions that come with pregnancy, controlling gestational diabetes mellitus can make things even more stressful. Rakshita Mehra emphasized, “Stress management is an essential part of GDM therapy because high stress levels release chemicals that could increase blood sugar levels. Because stress hormones can increase blood sugar, controlling stress is crucial for managing gestational diabetes.
- Stress reduction strategies: Meditation and mindfulness: Engaging in mindfulness exercises helps reduce stress and improve emotional health.
- Breathing techniques: Simple deep breathing techniques can reduce stress hormone levels and promote mental calm.
- Restful sleep: As sleep is closely linked to the regulation of blood sugar, rest must be prioritized. Pregnant women can wake up feeling rejuvenated and better prepared to meet the demands of the day by adhering to regular sleep habits and practicing excellent sleep hygiene.
4. Regular checkups and blood sugar monitoring
Rakshita Mehra revealed, “Regular blood sugar monitoring can provide important information about the impact of nutrition, exercise and other variables on blood sugar levels. Blood sugar is usually measured one to two hours after meals and in the morning (fasting). Alongside diet and physical activity, blood sugar readings can be recorded to help identify peak trends and areas for improvement.
To keep an eye on the health of mother and baby, routine checkups are crucial. To help you plan your diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes, your care team may include an obstetrician, a nutritionist, and sometimes a diabetes educator or even an endocrinologist.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have regarding a health problem.