Gestational Diabetes

[Aim38]

I am 38 and almost 7 weeks pregnant.  How do I prevent gestational diabetes?  I have heard this is a big concern for my age in pregnancy.  I really want to make sure I do everything I can to stay healthy.  I have 3 other children the youngest being 8 and no diabetes with any of them.

[LGK616]

I was 38 when I had my first child and I had GD.  It was manageable though with diet and measuring my blood sugar levels 4 times a day.  I basically cut out all white carbs - replaced them with whole wheat when I had the urge for pasta or rice.  Ate lots of veggies, salads, chicken and red meat (for iron).  And I made sure I ate 6 times a day to keep my levels normal.  Yogurt was always in my shopping cart.  Watch out for some fruits though - they will spike your levels like watermelon and strawberries.  Bananas and apples are the best.  Even an apple with peanut butter before bed will help keep your levels in check.  I'm 42 and just found out I'm pregnant with my 2nd so I'm sure I'll get GD again.  At least I know what to do and have started immediately with my diet.  Good luck!  It's not that bad - you'll eat great and you will also keep your weight in check too.  That was the plus side aside from having a very healthy baby in the end!

[anacyde]

Eat healthy, gain the recommended amount of weight, stay active.  Of course, you can do all of that and still get GD, but those things help to reduce your risk.  Congratulations!

[BabyG4ErTls]

I'm over 40 & was worried about it but Dr says not to. I'm 12w6d. I'm petite & always eat healthy. Dr says keep it up

[vrgchs]

I am 36 and have gd . . .  from what my doc told me - no way of preventing (can only try to control once you get it).  This is my 3rd baby and didnt have gd with my other 2.  I have eatten sooo healthy from the beginning and still got it. He told me that the healthiest female can end up with it and the person who eats the worst may not.  Doesnt seem fair to me!!  Once you have - diet, exercise or medicine can control it.