Healthy Living
4 Easy Ways to Help Manage Gestational Diabetes
Set up a lasting routine that works for you and your baby.
Trying to manage gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, can feel overwhelming. According to the CDC, gestational diabetes affects 2% to 10% of pregnant people each year, and its effects can be stressful. Fortunately, there’s plenty of simple, effective ways you can manage it, especially if you’ve just tested positive for gestational diabetes. We’re here to help you set up a lasting routine that works for you and your baby - read on for some helpful tips on how to manage gestational diabetes throughout your pregnancy.
Lean on a dietitian for guidance
Planning your next meal (and figuring out what to eat) while you’re pregnant can feel like a lot at times. That’s why working with a dietitian throughout your pregnancy is important. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a gestational diabetes diagnosis, a dietitian can get to know you through one-on-one meetings and advise on types of food, portion sizes, and overall eating habits. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone!
Keep movement fun and effortless
Physical activity and a regular exercise routine have positive effects on both your physical and mental health. Try including 30 minutes or more of moderate physical activity on most (if not all!) days of the week. Think: activities like swimming or walking. If you’re unable to fit 30 minutes in at once, try splitting up the time into two 15-minute intervals or three 15-minute intervals throughout the day. Even if you don’t have a structured physical activity plan, any type of physical movement as part of your daily lifestyle such as standing up, stretching, and getting in more steps can improve your health. As with any exercise, check with your doctor first before starting a new routine or making changes to your existing routine.
Set automatic reminders to check your blood sugar
Speak with your dietitian and doctor to create a clear plan of action around checking your blood sugar. Based on this plan, you can set reminders for yourself to make sure you’re on the right track. By having a clear routine and set plan of action, you’ll be able to focus on other aspects of your pregnancy.
Take daily breaks and make time for self-care
Pregnancy is exciting, but it can also be physically and mentally challenging at times. We recommend adding a period of quiet relaxation to your day. Whether that’s meditation, stretching, a good old-fashioned nap, or a soothing bath, do something for yourself that feels relaxing. Try unplugging for at least 20 minutes to tune into yourself, your body and your baby.
