- Gestational diabetes is a condition that occurs during pregnancy and can cause health problems in both mother and baby
- South Asian women are at higher risk of developing gestational diabetes
- Pre-pregnancy weight and a low-quality diet play a key role in increasing the risk among South Asian women, finds a study
Risk of Gestational Diabetes among South Asian Women
The study was based on data from the START Birth Cohort study. More than 1,000 women in their second trimester of pregnancy from Ontario's Region of Peel participated in the study.The START study collected health information, physical measurements and glucose tolerance test from the women. The team also obtained babies information on birth weight, skinfold thickness, cord blood glucose and insulin levels.
Some of the major risk factors that contributed to gestational diabetes among South Asian women included age, family history of type 2 diabetes and maternal height.
Modifiable risk factors like pre-pregnancy weight and low-diet quality also increased the risk of gestational diabetes.
A low-quality diet includes higher consumption of meat (red meat, chicken, and processed meat), rice, fried foods and lower consumption of fruits and vegetables. A high-quality diet was associated with higher consumption of legumes, whole grains, and vegetables.
The study highlights the importance of healthy eating and maintaining healthy weight among South Asian women who are considering pregnancy.
In future, intervention studies will be conducted to determine whether lowering pre-pregnancy weight and optimizing diet quality during pregnancy can reduce the high rates of gestational diabetes in this high-risk population.
The findings of the study are published in Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) Open.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is a complication that occurs during pregnancy. It affects how the cells use glucose and result in high blood sugar levels. Gestational diabetes can affect pregnancy and the baby's health. Babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes have increased birth weight, higher body fat and lower insulin sensitivity. Pregnant women with gestational diabetes are more likely to undergo a cesarean section.The blood sugar levels usually return to normal soon after the delivery. But, gestational diabetes can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes Pregnant women with gestational diabetes can control blood sugar levels by eating healthy foods and exercising.
Complications of Gestational Diabetes
Risk for the baby- Excessive birth weight
- Preterm birth
- Respiratory distress syndrome
- Hypoglycemia
- Type 2 diabetes later in life
- High blood pressure
- Preeclampsia
- Type 2 diabetes in future
Tips to Prevent Gestational Diabetes
Eat healthily - Opt for foods that are high in fiber and low in fat. Include more fruits, vegetables, and whole grainsStay active - Exercising before and during pregnancy can lower the risk of gestational diabetes. Engage in moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes a day.
Shed excess weight - It is important to shed extra kilos for a healthier pregnancy.
Reference:
- Gestational Diabetes - (https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes/gestational)