What Increases Sugar Level During Pregnancy?

The placenta, which develops during pregnancy, secretes various hormones that can increase blood sugar levels. Human placental lactogen (HPL) is one such hormone. It acts to increase insulin resistance in the mother’s body. This means that the cells do not respond as well to insulin, which is responsible for transporting glucose from the bloodstream into the cells. For example, as pregnancy progresses and the levels of HPL rise, the mother’s body requires more insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. If the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to compensate for this increased resistance, blood sugar levels will start to increase. Another hormone, progesterone, also plays a role. It can affect the liver’s ability to regulate glucose production. The liver may produce more glucose than normal, adding to the overall blood sugar load. For instance, in the later stages of pregnancy, when progesterone levels are high, the liver may release excessive amounts of glucose into the bloodstream.

Insulin resistance is a natural physiological change during pregnancy, but when it becomes excessive, it leads to increased sugar levels. The body’s cells become less sensitive to insulin, which is a normal adaptation to ensure that the fetus has an adequate supply of glucose. However, in some cases, this resistance can be too great. For example, a woman with a pre-existing condition that affects insulin sensitivity, such as obesity or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may experience a more pronounced increase in insulin resistance during pregnancy. This can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Additionally, genetic factors can also influence the degree of insulin resistance. If a woman has a family history of diabetes, she may be more prone to developing significant insulin resistance during pregnancy, which in turn can lead to higher blood sugar levels.

Consuming a diet high in carbohydrates, especially refined carbohydrates, can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. Foods like white bread, white rice, and pastries made from refined flour are quickly digested and converted into glucose. For example, a slice of white bread can cause a significant spike in blood sugar within a short time after consumption. This is because the refining process removes the fiber and other nutrients that would otherwise slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. Sugary cereals are also a culprit. They often contain a large amount of added sugars and simple carbohydrates, which are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. When a pregnant woman eats a bowl of such cereals, her blood sugar can rise quickly, putting stress on the pancreas to produce more insulin.

Sugary drinks, including soda, fruit juices with added sugars, and sweetened teas, are major contributors to increased sugar levels. A can of soda can have 30 – 40 grams of sugar. When a pregnant woman drinks soda, the sugar is quickly absorbed, leading to a sharp increase in blood sugar. Even natural fruit juices, although they contain some vitamins and minerals, can have a high sugar content. For instance, a glass of apple juice may have 20 – 30 grams of sugar. The body treats the sugar in these drinks in a similar way to that in table sugar, causing a rapid elevation in blood glucose levels. Sweetened teas, which are often loaded with added sugars, also have the same effect. These drinks not only increase blood sugar but can also contribute to weight gain, which further exacerbates the problem of insulin resistance.

Stress can have a negative impact on blood sugar levels during pregnancy. When a woman is stressed, her body releases stress hormones such as cortisol. Cortisol can increase blood sugar levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen in the liver, which releases glucose into the bloodstream. For example, a pregnant woman who is under a lot of work-related stress or experiencing emotional stress may have higher blood sugar levels. Additionally, stress can also affect a woman’s eating habits. She may be more likely to reach for comfort foods, which are often high in sugar and carbohydrates. This combination of stress-induced hormonal changes and poor dietary choices can lead to significant increases in blood sugar. For instance, a woman who is stressed and then eats a large piece of cake is likely to experience a sharp rise in blood sugar.

Gestational diabetes itself is a condition that causes increased blood sugar levels. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or use it effectively to handle the increased glucose demands of pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes may have fasting blood sugar levels above 95 mg/dL or higher postprandial (after meal) blood sugar levels. For example, a woman with gestational diabetes may have a fasting blood sugar of 105 mg/dL, which is above the normal range. The pancreas may struggle to produce enough insulin to keep up with the body’s needs, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when the placental hormones that increase insulin resistance are at their peak. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which can have various consequences for both the mother and the fetus if not properly managed.

Some medications and supplements can increase blood sugar levels during pregnancy. For example, certain corticosteroids, which may be prescribed for conditions like asthma or autoimmune disorders, can cause hyperglycemia. These medications work by suppressing the immune system, but they also have an effect on glucose metabolism. They can increase insulin resistance and promote the liver’s production of glucose. A pregnant woman who is taking corticosteroids may need to have her blood sugar levels closely monitored. Additionally, some herbal supplements may also have an impact on blood sugar. Although herbal supplements are often considered natural, they can still interact with the body’s metabolism. For instance, ginseng has been shown to have both hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic effects depending on the dosage and the individual’s health status. Pregnant women should always consult their healthcare provider before taking any medications or supplements to ensure that they do not have an adverse effect on blood sugar levels.

Several factors can increase sugar levels during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, dietary choices, lack of physical activity, stress, medical conditions, and medications or supplements all play a role. Pregnant women need to be aware of these factors and take appropriate steps to manage their blood sugar levels. This includes following a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and having regular prenatal check-ups to monitor for any medical conditions that could affect blood sugar. By taking these measures, the risks associated with elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes and its complications, can be minimized.