Gestational diabetes - diet/exercise tips?

[Solly-44]

Hello

I’m currently 17+3 and was recently told I’m high risk for GD. My BMI was on the lower end of normal (19) before I got pregnant, but I’m 38, have severe PCOS and have had rapid weight gain during the pregnancy.

Just got a letter to say my blood test showed raised blood sugar so I’m booked in for the glucose tolerance test.

Obviously I really want to avoid this if at all possible. I know I need to buck my ideas up diet/exercise wise. I was pretty fit before pregnancy but all day everyday pregnancy sickness until 16 weeks knocked that on the head! Anyone got any tips to get me back on track? X

[Seb9]

I had GD during my pregnancy, and had to test my blood 4 red a day to check levels.

I found that gentle exercise helped lower them such as swimming and walking.

I cut out all sweets and chocolates and swapped lots of food for lower carb versions for example I swapped my normal pasta for wholegrain pasta and quinoa. Instead of potato I'd have sweet potato.

For breakfast I'd have Omlette with mushrooms, tomatoes, cheese and spinach. Sometimes with ham or bacon, instead of cereal.

I'd snack on nuts and fruit like apples, pears and berries. No exotic fruits like pineapple or mango as they were higher in sugar.

After big meals I'd go for a small walk to help lower sugar levels.

I managed really well pretty much to the end of my pregnancy when even on the lowest carb diet I'd still go over, so I started taking Metformin which helped keep my levels down.

If you do have GD, you'll get referred to the diabetes team and they'll give you loads of info and help too.

I know GD does have a risk of big babies but my little girl was 6lb 1oz so it doesn't always happen.

Best of luck xx

[Solly-44 in reply to Seb9]

This is really helpful - thanks so much for your reply! X

[Hidden]

Find a local pregnancy Pilates class for some gentle exercise.

[Solly-44 in reply to Hidden]

Ooh good idea, I used to enjoy Pilates so that’s a good shout thanks x