Gestational Diabetes: What it is, management and an alternative to the glucose drink
Gestational diabetes (GD) is a form of diabetes that appears during pregnancy and can affect around 2-10% of pregnancies. It’s a condition that requires mindful management, as it affects not only the mother but also the baby’s health. As Naturopathic Doctors, we often work with pregnant individuals to help them understand and manage gestational diabetes naturally, using a holistic approach to promote stable blood sugar levels and overall wellness.
Understanding Gestational Diabetes
During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, some of which can impact how insulin works. Insulin is the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. GD is primarily triggered by the unique hormonal shifts of pregnancy, particularly from hormones produced by the placenta that can create insulin resistance. The risk is higher in those who are overweight, over the age of 25, have a family history of diabetes, or have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy. Proper management is essential to reduce risks, including high birth weight for the baby, preterm birth, and the development of type 2 diabetes later in life.
The Glucose Challenge Test – Is There an Alternative?
The dreaded Glucose Challenge Test!!! I remember sitting in the lab after drinking that awful “juice” and feeling like I was going to vomit or pass out.
Most pregnant individuals are offered a glucose challenge test between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy to screen for gestational diabetes. The test traditionally involves drinking a high-glucose drink that some people find unpleasant due to the high sugar content and artificial ingredients. For me, the ingredients are enough to make anyone sick.
But what if we could avoid this drink? Now you can! A common alternative to this sugary drink is the jellybean test. Instead of the glucose solution, patients consume a specific number of jellybeans (usually 28-50 grams of glucose worth) to achieve the same sugar load required for the test. The jellybean method is well-tolerated by many and still provides accurate screening results. We recommend purchasing organic jellybeans, coloured with natural dyes like Spirulina, Turmeric root, and beets.
If you’re interested in the jellybean alternative, discuss it with your healthcare provider, as not all practitioners offer it. For reference, you can read the full article here.
Naturopathic Tools for Blood Sugar Balance During Pregnancy
Here are some key naturopathic strategies that can help manage blood sugar levels safely during pregnancy:
1. Nutrition
Balance macronutrients: Eating balanced meals with a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates helps stabilize blood sugar. This combination slows digestion and reduces glucose spikes after meals. Your goal should be to aim for 80g of protein in your first trimester, and increase this amount to 100g in second and third trimester.
Focus on fiber: Fiber-rich foods like vegetables, whole grains, beans, and legumes can help reduce blood sugar spikes. Fiber supports slower digestion and absorption, which naturally smooths out blood glucose fluctuations.
Low-glycemic foods: Foods with a low glycemic index (GI) release glucose more slowly and steadily. Examples include most fruits and vegetables, quinoa, lentils, and chickpeas.
Healthy snacks: Keep blood sugar levels stable with nutrient-dense snacks, such as a handful of nuts, a boiled egg, or sliced veggies with hummus, especially between meals.
2. Herbal and Nutritional Support
Chromium: This mineral plays a role in insulin regulation and may help improve blood sugar control. In small amounts, it’s generally safe for pregnancy, but always consult your healthcare provider before adding it to your regimen.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon can help lower blood glucose levels by enhancing insulin sensitivity. Incorporating a dash of cinnamon into meals, smoothies, or oatmeal is a simple way to add this spice to your diet.
Magnesium: Many people are deficient in magnesium, a mineral that helps regulate blood sugar. Dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and avocados are magnesium-rich foods that can naturally support blood glucose levels. Magnesium supplements should be used only with guidance from a healthcare provider, especially during pregnancy.
Inositol: Myo-inositol is one of the intracellular mediators of the insulin signal and correlates with insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes. The potential beneficial effect of improving insulin sensitivity suggests that myo-inositol may be useful for women in preventing gestational diabetes. Evidence from seven studies shows that antenatal dietary supplementation with myo-inositol during pregnancy may reduce the incidence of gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and preterm birth.
3. Lifestyle Recommendations
Gentle Exercise: Regular, gentle movement helps the body use glucose more efficiently. Activities such as walking, prenatal yoga, and swimming can be particularly helpful for keeping blood sugar in check. Aim for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
Stress Management: Stress can lead to increased blood sugar levels due to the release of stress hormones, like cortisol, which can raise blood sugar. Gentle practices like deep breathing, meditation, and prenatal massages can help reduce stress and support healthy glucose levels.
Sleep: Good-quality sleep supports insulin sensitivity. Aim for 7-8 hours per night, as poor sleep can make blood sugar management more difficult.
4. Regular Monitoring
For those diagnosed with or at risk of gestational diabetes, monitoring blood sugar levels at home may be recommended. Tracking your levels can give insights into how certain foods and activities impact your blood sugar. Many of my patients find this helpful, as it allows them to adjust meals or habits in real time, improving their control over their condition.
So, what’s the scoop?
Gestational diabetes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A holistic, naturopathic approach can complement conventional care, empowering you to make informed choices that positively impact your health and your baby’s well-being. For those navigating this diagnosis, remember that every meal, every small habit, and each act of self-care can contribute to a healthier pregnancy.
For those who may need additional support, consider working with a naturopathic doctor or nutritionist who can help you personalize a plan that fits your unique needs.
In health always,
Dr. Jessica