A new study from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality suggests that as much as 6.4% of all births in the U.S. are impacted by some form of diabetes, either pre-existing or gestational diabetes, making the disease one of the most frequent complications during pregnancy.
For women who are pregnant, an increased blood sugar level can have serious implications for both baby and mother. Possible complications include a higher chance of the life-threatening condition known as pre-eclampsia, a higher likelihood of c-section, as well as an increased risk of birth defects. In addition, both mother and child have a higher probability of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
One-third of women never screened for gestational diabetes
Many women battling gestational diabetes never even know it. In a study recently reported in Obstetrics and Gynecology, researchers determined that as many as one in three women are never screened for the condition, meaning thousands of cases are never reported.
According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 135,000 cases of gestational diabetes are reported annually. But researchers believe that if new screening recommendations are adopted, that number could double. Screening takes on additional importance since nearly half of all women who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes go on to eventually contract Type 2 diabetes.
Why gestational diabetes happens
As the unborn baby grows and requires more nutrients, the mother’s body must produce more insulin than normal to help absorb blood sugar and in turn, supply both baby and mother with vital nutrition. Gestational diabetes occurs when the mother’s body does not produce enough insulin to support this process.
During most normal pregnancies, women practically double the number of insulin producing cells in the pancreas, known as islets of Langerhans. Researchers now believe that hormones largely control this process, and have recently identified serotonin as a primary contributor.
Scientists have known for years that this new generation of islet cells starts to occur at the very onset of pregnancy, as the body prepares to supply nutrients to the baby during various growth spurts, especially the third trimester. However, they have never really understood why. With the link to Serotonin identified, researchers can begin to work on the factors that impact serotonin levels in the body, such as drugs, diet and genetics.
Diet during early pregnancy is key
If you’re pregnant, there is now strong evidence that you can help prevent or reduce the impact of gestational diabetes simply by adjusting your pregnancy diet.
In the research, the amino acid tryptophan — a key building block for serotonin — was identified as an important ingredient. Therefore, increasing your intake of protein-rich foods early in your pregnancy should be a priority, especially if you carry risk factors for diabetes, such as being overweight or have a family history of diabetes. Foods rich in tryptophan include most lean proteins, such as soy, eggs, turkey, sesame seeds, shellfish, etc.
If you’re pregnant, this is often easier said than done, especially when nausea and pregnancy cravings take hold. However, any efforts to protect yourself and your baby are well worth it.
If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, be sure to consult your doctor and follow all the treatment and self-monitoring recommendations from your health care team.
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