Pregnancy is a life-transforming section for a lady and any impediment might add to the stress related to the journey of motherhood. Many ladies over 25, with the household historical past of diabetes, with weight problems or inactive way of life are prone to gestational diabetes. In this situation, attributable to hormones produced by placenta, physique is not in a position to make use of insulin successfully. However, all of the signs of one of these diabetes disappear after the supply. Women who develop gestational diabetes are prone to type 2 diabetes later in life. But can this situation be averted? Staying lively, shedding pounds earlier than conceiving and consuming a nutritious diet can scale back the possibilities of gestational diabetes, nevertheless, it can’t be completely prevented due to the genetic element. (Also learn: Gestational diabetes diet: Foods to control diabetes in pregnant women)

“For expecting mothers, there are several things to consider in order to lower the chance of developing gestational diabetes. While gestational diabetes can not be entirely prevented because of the genetic component, there are a range of things that can be done to reduce the risk of developing the condition,” says Dr. R.M Anjana – Managing Director and Consultant, Diabetologist – Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre in an interview with HT Digital. Dr Anjana additionally talks in regards to the way of life modifications an anticipating mom should undertake to forestall gestational diabetes threat.

Maintain a wholesome weight

“There are some lifestyle aspects, with diet to begin with. I want to talk about weight first before I talk about diet. Gaining weight during a woman’s first two trimesters of pregnancy may or may not have a direct effect on developing gestational diabetes.This is the type of gestational diabetes that typically appears between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. Therefore, the main thing a woman can do to lower her chance of developing gestational diabetes is to maintain a healthy weight and avoid gaining too much weight,” says Dr Anjana.

“However, one cannot rule out risk of gestational diabetes in early trimesters which is known as early gestational diabetes and one needs to consider pre-pregnancy weight for this. If a woman is considering getting pregnant and has risk factors like obesity, preconception counseling may be necessary. Losing weight even before becoming pregnant is necessary,” the skilled provides.

The quantity of weight a lady accumulates throughout being pregnant is known as gestational weight acquire, and it’s depending on her BMI. So whereas one wants energy and vitamin throughout being pregnant, additional fats and sugar might be averted.

Healthy weight loss program

“Cravings are common at this point, therefore, limiting your intake of processed meals will be beneficial. Try to limit your diet to home-cooked meals. Therefore, eating fruits and vegetables will provide a balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Intake of fat is also acceptable if a person is not very obese. However, maintaining a healthy diet throughout the pregnancy should also be a top priority,” says Dr Anjana.

Walking and different pelvic ground workouts

“I cannot emphasize enough the value of exercise and physical activity. It is suggested that the woman should rest during the first trimester. Walking is encouraged throughout pregnancy after that point, though. To the extent possible, the woman must stroll. It is required to walk for about an hour and perform further pelvic floor exercises. These are prevention of gestational diabetes,” says the skilled.

Avoid stress

“As our grandparents used to advise us, it’s also crucial to remain joyful while pregnant. Preventing early-trimester stress is also helpful in preventing gestational diabetes. Working and engaging in daily activities are beneficial, but stress should be avoided,” says Dr Anjana.

Other measures

Other important components of being pregnant embody doing pranayama, trying to be cheerful, lowering stress, and acquiring as a lot sleep as attainable. Because sleeping with a new child in your arms after giving delivery isn’t an unlikely state of affairs. It’s essential to remain hydrated and drink sufficient water all through the summer season season, concludes Dr Anjana.