According to Dr. Anu Sridhar, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru (India), pregnancy is a period of expectation and change for women, but also comes with some health problems to note. One of them is gestational diabetes, a condition in which blood sugar levels increase during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that affect insulin function. Although some factors such as age or family history cannot be changed, daily lifestyle plays an important role in reducing the risk of disease.
The role of lifestyle in gestational diabetes
Dr. Anu Sridhar says that gestational diabetes occurs when pregnancy hormones disrupt the body's ability to regulate insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. Business habits that can aggravate this condition include:
sedentary lifestyle: Sitting for long hours, limiting movement and resting excessively during pregnancy reduces insulin sensitivity, making it more difficult for the body to control glucose. Even gentle, regular activities can help improve the ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
Excessive or pre-excess weight gain: Weight gain is natural during pregnancy, but weight gain is too rapid or pregnancy when you are overweight/ obese increases the risk of gestational diabetes. Being overweight makes it difficult for the body to control glucose and insulin effectively.
Eat a diet high in refined starch and sugary foods: Eating a lot of white bread, baked goods, sweets, sugary drinks and processed foods can spike blood sugar levels. Lack of fiber, protein and essential nutrients also makes the body respond less to insulin.
Stress and poor sleep: Stress increases the hormone cortisol, leading to higher blood sugar levels. Not getting enough sleep also affects hormonal balance and increases the risk of insulin resistance.
Basic health conditions: Some health conditions that increase the risk of gestational diabetes, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a history of gestational diabetes or a family history of type 2 diabetes.
How to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes
Eat a balanced diet: Prioritize whole grains, lean proteins, foods rich in fiber and healthy fats; combine carbohydrates with protein or fiber to stabilize blood sugar.
Always be active: Take light walks, yoga, swim if allowed; help improve insulin sensitivity and control weight.
Manage sleep and stress: Meditate, take deep breaths, do yoga before bed to balance hormones and reduce stress.
Timely screening: Do gestational diabetes testing from week 2428 for early diagnosis and management.
