Understanding Normal Blood Sugar Levels During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of significant physiological changes, affecting various bodily functions, including blood sugar regulation. As your body adjusts to accommodate can drink water before blood sugar test your growing baby, hormonal fluctuations can impact glucose levels in the bloodstream.

During pregnancy, women experience an increased demand for insulin due to rising hormone levels such as human placental lactogen (hPL) and estrogen. These hormones increase insulin resistance, making it more challenging for glucose to enter cells efficiently. As a result, blood sugar levels may rise or drop unpredictably. Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels

To ensure the health of both blood sugar of 27 mother and baby, managing blood sugar is crucial during pregnancy.

Factors Influencing Normal Blood Sugar Levels During Pregnancy

• Age: Women over 35 years are more likely blood sugar meter says high to develop gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).
• Ethnicity: Some ethnic groups such as African American, 248 blood sugar level Hispanic or Latino, American Indian, and Asian women are at a higher risk of developing GDM.
• Family History: A family history of diabetes increases the risk.
• Weight Gain During Pregnancy: Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can lead to insulin resistance.

Maintaining Normal Blood Sugar Levels

A normal blood sugar range for pregnant women is between 3.9mmol/L (70mg/dL) and 6.1 mmol /L (110 mg / dL). Regular monitoring helps prevent or manage complications associated with abnormal blood glucose levels.

To maintain a stable blood sugar level, incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine:

• Diet: Eat nutritious meals that promote steady energy releases.
• Exercise: Engage in blood sugar food to eat regular physical activities to improve insulin sensitivity.
• Stress Management: Use relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation to manage stress levels.

Complications Associated with Abnormal Blood Glucose Levels

Untreated gestational diabetes can lead to complications for both mother and baby, including:

**Fetal Macrosomia:** The risk of the baby being born overweight increases.

• Preeclampsia: Pregnancy-related high blood pressure that requires prompt medical attention.

The risks associated with abnormal blood sugar levels during pregnancy emphasize maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The American Diabetes Association has published new guidelines for the prevention and treatment of diabetes. CBS2's Christine Sloan explains that for many patients, this could mean taking additional medication.