How Exercising Can Help With Gestational Diabetes

Unless you already have a regular fitness routine, you probably don’t want to start one
half way through your pregnancy. But the benefits that you will derive as a woman with
gestational diabetes who exercises will make the physical activity worth it in the end.
Before you begin any new physical activity or routine, discuss with your doctor any
guidelines you need to follow or warning signs you should heed.

You do need to be aware and careful about when you eat and take your insulin in relation
to any physical exercise. If you wait too long after eating to exercise you will cause your
blood sugar to drop dangerously low. A good rule to follow at any time – exercising or
not – is to have a snack with you to raise your blood sugar quickly. A good snack is
something high in sugar that will raise your blood sugar quickly like a juice box or a
piece of fruit. Have a snack with you that is long-acting too such as a granola bar. You
can also purchase glucose tablets for emergencies when you become hypoglycemic.

The best time to exercise is after one of your main meals. If you can fit in a 15-20 minute
walk three times a day it would be idea. But if you cannot try and go for a bit of a longer
walk at least once per day. When at work go for a walk after lunch or schedule a family
walk every night after dinner. If you already have an established exercise routine it is
probably safe for you to do more but a vigorous or leisurely walk is extremely beneficial.

Exercising will help you keep your blood glucose levels under control and increase your
energy. Getting in shape through exercise before delivery can help your labor progress
smoothly as well.