Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes (GDM) affects 2-10% of pregnancies every year and is characterized by your body using its insulin less efficiently resulting in higher than normal blood sugars as your baby grows. Uncontrolled gestational diabetes can result in the development of pre-eclampsia, large for gestation fetal growth potentially increasing the need for a C-section, and it can hinder lung development in the growing baby as the baby is trying to regulate its own blood sugars. Fortunately, pre-screening, nutrition, lifestyle interventions, and on occasion, medications if deemed necessary from your physician can help to prevent these side effects. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggest getting screened between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. However, there are some individuals who may benefit from early screening. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggest early screening for those with:
- BMI 25 (23 in Asian Americans)
- Physical Inactivity
- Family history of diabetes in parent or sibling
- African, Native, Asian American, Latino, Pacific Islander heritage
- Previous history of GDM or large baby >4000 grams
- High blood pressure > 130/80
- HDL cholesterol </= 45 mg/dl
- Fasting triglyceride >/=250 mg/dL
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- Conditions associated with insulin resistance (acanthosis nigricans, morbid obesity)
- Hgb A1C >/= 5.7
- Cardiovascular disease
Diet is one of the main interventions physicians will prescribe to help manage your gestational diabetes and keep your blood sugars within target range during pregnancy. If you would like assistance in navigating diet through your pregnancy, please don’t hesitate to ask your physician for a referral to see a dietitian.
Sources:
https://www.obgproject.com/2023/01/02/acog-releases-updated-guidance-gestational-diabetes/