Ah, this famous super sweet orange drink that we are stuck around 26 weeks of pregnancy! Screening for gestational diabetes is a must for most pregnancy follow-ups.
This condition, which now affects up to 20% of pregnant women in Canada, is manifested by low blood sugar (often referred to as blood sugar) higher than normal. In recent years, the tightening of screening protocols has exploded the frequency of follow-ups for pregnancy diabetes. Fortunately, by combining an appropriate workout plan and a targeted diet plan, the majority of women with gestational diabetes control their blood sugar levels – but what's even more interesting is that pregnancy-related diabetes can also be prevented.
The harmful effects of gestational diabetes
Although this condition is increasingly common, gestational diabetes should be taken seriously, as it is often linked to more serious he alth problems. In particular, high blood sugar is associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia, hypertension, prematurity,delivery by cesarean section and development of type 2 diabetes in the mother later in life.
Furthermore, she often lacks the energy to do her daily activities due to fatigue caused by the lack of sugar in her cells. Prepartum exhaustion and depression are something to watch out for, especially for the pregnant working mom with older children.
Training is an asset
"Eat for two and take it easy!" » We have all heard this advice from grandmothers which leads us to believe that it would be appropriate to eat without worry and to stop moving… Advice that is not at all appropriate in the case of gestational diabetes.
Although the mother-to-be may feel tired and want to rest, recent studies prove that prenatal training can greatly contribute to better he alth for the mother and for the baby. Researchers observed a 36% decrease in the incidence of diabetes in pregnant women who exercise compared to women who do not move, in addition to gaining an average of 1 pound less.
Women with gestational diabetes who work out notice better blood sugar management and fewer birth complications. That said, physical exercise is recommended not only for women who have been diagnosed with diabetes, but also from the first weeks of pregnancy to prevent diabetes, especially for women with an indexbody mass (BMI) greater than 30.
Benefits
The latest recommendations are clear: 30 to 45 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, 3 to 5 times a week, is an effective plan for diabetes prevention and treatment after diagnosis.
To avoid injuries, it is essential to choose appropriate exercises for pregnant women according to the principles of perinatal training. Exercises should aim for a combination of cardiovascular and muscular endurance and stretching that increases mobility and flexibility.
It is also interesting to target your training according to the time of day when your blood sugar is the highest. For example, if fasting blood sugar in the morning is a problem, working out before bed at night can help control blood sugar overnight.
For those who take insulin to control their blood sugar, it is important to validate your training plan with your doctor, because the dose of insulin must sometimes be adjusted downwards on the days you are doing some exercice. It is also recommended to have your glucometer and a source of fast-absorbing carbohydrates on hand in case of hypoglycemia.
“Prevention is better than cure. This is a grandmother's advice that takes on its full meaning when it comes to gestational diabetes. So, put on your espadrilles and get moving throughout your pregnancy!
