Diabetes that develops during pregnancy, called gestational diabetes, doesn't just affect women who had the disease prior to becoming pregnant. In fact, if you are overweight, over the age of 25 or have a family history of diabetes, you're more likely to develop gestational diabetes. You're also at greater risk if you are Asian, African-American, Hispanic or American Indian. Whether you are working to prevent the disease from affecting your pregnancy or already have received a diagnosis, exercise can play an important role in limiting the effects of diabetes on you and your baby.
Resistance Training
You may think that resistance training would be discouraged if you're pregnant, but this type of exercise can still be a part of your fitness plan during pregnancy. Research also shows that resistance exercise is beneficial if you have gestational diabetes. A study published in December 2010 in the "American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology" found that this form of exercise can not only help you better manage your blood glucose level but also may prevent the need for insulin therapy.
Walking
Walking continues to be one of the best ways to incorporate physical activity into your day for people of all ages and fitness levels, primarily because it works the entire body with minimal impact on the joints. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists lists walking as one of the safe exercise options for pregnant women as well. If you have diabetes or want to prevent it, this physical activity is an ideal choice. Participating in a walking program can reduce high blood sugar levels and your dependency on insulin treatment, according to a June 2008 Canadian study published in "Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism."
Tai Chi
While there is mixed evidence on Tai Chi's ability to prevent or reduce high blood sugar, this ancient Chinese system of controlled movements can be helpful in reducing stress. Stress effects endocrine function, causing an increase in blood glucose. Participating in the practice of Tai Chi may indirectly help you manage your blood sugar during pregnancy as a result. In addition, the promotion of relaxation and stress management can help you stay committed to a healthy lifestyle -- vital both for disease control and for your baby's development.
Precautions
Although exercise is strongly encouraged during pregnancy, consult your doctor before beginning a fitness routine. This is especially important if you have gestational diabetes and use insulin therapy, as physical activity can affect how your body responds to insulin. Make sure to lower the amount of weights you use and take longer breaks between exercises if you are engaging in resistance or strength training. Get medical attention immediately if you experience nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, cramping or bleeding during exercise, according to the American College of Sports Medicine.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Gestational Diabetes
- American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology: Resistance Exercise and Glycemic Control in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Exercise During Pregnancy
- Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism: A Walking Intervention Improves Capillary Glucose Control in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Diabetes
- American College of Sports Medicine: Exercise During Pregnancy: Safe and Beneficial
