Gestational Diabetes: A Naturopath’s Perspective

PregnaPregnancy is a transformative time in your life, but complications like gestational diabetes can hang like a black cloud over your journey. Fortunately there are strategies we can use throughout your pregnancy to help you manage gestational diabetes and help prevent complications. So let’s take a look at gestational diabetes from a naturopathic perspective.

What is Gestational Diabetes and What Causes it?

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a temporary form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and affects how the body processes glucose. Gestational diabetes occurs when the body can’t produce enough insulin to meet the increased needs of pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the placenta produces its own hormones to assist in baby’s growth as well as preparing your body for birth, postpartum and breastfeeding. Some of these hormones, such as oestrogen and human placental lactogen, can block the effects of insulin. When combined with the increased insulin requirements of pregnancy, this can lead to insulin resistance and blood sugar dysregulation, resulting in a diagnosis of gestational diabetes. If left unmanaged, gestational diabetes can lead to complications such as macrosomia (excessive foetal growth), preterm birth, increased risk of cesarean delivery, and a higher chance of the mother developing type 2 diabetes later in life. While a diagnosis of GDM can be really concerning for expectant mums, the good news is that GDM can often be managed without medications, through the use of diet and lifestyle changes, and supplements where appropriate.

Diagnosing GDM - Do I Have to Do the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test?

The standard test for gestational diabetes is the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), usually performed between 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. The test involves drinking a glucose solution and having blood sugar levels tested at different intervals. However, many mums prefer to avoid this test due to the very high amounts of glucose that need to be consumed, and the potential side effects like nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Fortunately there are alternative options available to you if you wish to avoid the OGTT:

• Continuous Glucose Monitoring – Tracking blood sugar levels over time using a wearable monitor.

• Fasting Blood Sugar & HbA1c Tests – Measuring fasting glucose levels and long-term blood sugar control.

• Postprandial Blood Sugar Testing – Checking blood sugar levels after meals to identify patterns of dysregulation. Typically requires hiring a blood glucose monitor from the chemist and requires a certain level of commitment in order to get accurate data.

I’ve Been Diagnosed with GDM, Now What?

So you’ve been diagnosed with GDM, now what happens? From a naturopathic perspective we will want to look at:

• Your diet - how much sugar (glucose) are you eating overall? What is the timing of your sugar intake? Are you also eating enough fibre, protein and healthy fats?

• Your lifestyle - are you getting enough physical activity throughout the day/ week? What are your stress levels like and how can we improve them? Are you resting adequately?

• Treatment options - has your GP prescribed any medications for managing your GDM? Can we use supplements or herbal medicines?

Managing Gestational Diabetes with Diet

A well-balanced diet is crucial for managing gestational diabetes. Below are some of the key principles to follow when it comes to managing GDM through diet.

1. Focus on Whole, Nutrient-Dense Foods

Eating whole, unprocessed foods supports stable blood sugar levels. Include:

• High-quality protein: Grass-fed meats, eggs, fish, tofu, tempeh, legumes, and nuts.

• Healthy fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds, extra virgin olive oil, and coconut oil.

• Low GI carbohydrates and fibre: Non-starchy vegetables, fruits, quinoa, oats, lentils and other legumes

2. Prioritise Protein & Healthy Fats at Every Meal

Protein and fats slow down the absorption of glucose, helping to prevent blood sugar spikes.

3. Reduce Processed Carbohydrates & Sugary Foods

Refined sugars and white flour products cause rapid blood sugar spikes. Instead of white bread and pastries, opt for fibre-rich options like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes.

Lifestyle for Gestational Diabetes

In addition to dietary changes, there are a few key lifestyle changes that can make a significant impact on your blood glucose control with GDM.

1. Engage in Regular Physical Activity

Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood sugar levels, and can be effective in improving glucose tolerance in GDM. Pregnancy-safe options include:

• Walking – 30 minutes daily can significantly improve glucose metabolism.

• Prenatal yoga – Helps reduce stress and improve insulin function.

• Strength training – Builds muscle, which helps with glucose uptake. If you were not previously doing strength training before pregnancy, or have taken a break from strength training for a while, it’s best to book in with a prenatal trainer for advice before picking up weights.

2. Manage Your Stress

Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can worsen blood sugar control. Mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, and acupuncture can all support stress reduction. Talk therapy can also be worth considering, especially if you have external issues in your life that are contributing to your stress.

3. Prioritise Quality Sleep

Poor sleep affects insulin sensitivity and can increase the risk of GDM. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night and practice good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding screens before bedtime and creating a relaxing evening routine. If you’d like more info, check out my blog posts on sleep hygiene and blue light.

What Else Can Help With Gestational Diabetes?

We have some great options available to us when it comes to supporting GDM with naturopathy. Depending on your overall health picture, that might include:

• Myo-inositol - improves insulin sensitivity - several studies have found inositol supplementation can help prevent GDM

• Magnesium - research shows that magnesium levels are often lower in women diagnosed with GDM, and supplementing with magnesium can help improve insulin sensitivity for those with GDM

As a pregnancy naturopath, I am also fortunate to have a wonderful toolkit of herbal medicines that can support blood glucose control, insulin functioning, and help reduce risk of complications throughout pregnancy. There are many fantastic herbal medicines that can be safely used throughout pregnancy, but it is always important to consult with your herbalist or naturopath before beginning any new herbal medicine, and especially during pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Gestational diabetes can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, it is absolutely manageable. A women’s health naturopath can provide personalized guidance on diet, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies to support you and your baby’s health. If you have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes and want a holistic approach to managing your pregnancy health, book a consultation with me today.

About the Author

Lizzie Stow is a clinical naturopath from Newcastle, Australia.

To find out more about Lizzie, click here.

Book an appointment with Lizzie here.