Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that affects pregnant women. It occurs when a woman’s body cannot produce enough insulin to control her blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

This condition can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. While there are many risk factors that can contribute to gestational diabetes, one of the surprising connections is the consumption of potatoes.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes affects approximately 10% of pregnant women in the United States. It occurs when the hormones produced during pregnancy make it harder for the body to use insulin effectively.

Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When the body cannot use insulin effectively, it leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause problems for both the mother and the baby.

The risk factors for gestational diabetes include being overweight or obese before pregnancy, having a family history of diabetes, and being over the age of 25.

Women who are pregnant with twins or triplets are also at a higher risk for gestational diabetes.

The Connection Between Potatoes and Gestational Diabetes

Recent studies have shown that the consumption of potatoes can increase a woman’s risk of developing gestational diabetes.

A study published in the British Medical Journal found that women who consumed more than five servings of potatoes per week had a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes than those who consumed fewer than two servings per week.

One theory is that the high glycemic index of potatoes may be to blame. The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels.

Foods with a high glycemic index, like potatoes, can cause blood sugar levels to spike quickly, which can make it harder for the body to use insulin effectively.

Another theory is that the way potatoes are prepared may be a factor. Potatoes that are fried or baked at high temperatures can produce a compound called acrylamide, which has been linked to an increased risk of cancer and diabetes.

Other Foods to Avoid

In addition to potatoes, there are other foods that pregnant women should avoid if they want to lower their risk of gestational diabetes. These include:.

Sugary drinks and foods
Processed meats
White bread, pasta, and rice
Sweetened breakfast cereals
Fruit juice

Instead, pregnant women should focus on eating a healthy, balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

The Importance of Exercise

Along with a healthy diet, regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. It can also help control weight gain during pregnancy.

Women who are pregnant should aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. This can include activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga.

The Bottom Line

Gestational diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. While there are many risk factors that contribute to this condition, the consumption of potatoes may be a surprising one.

Pregnant women should aim to include a variety of healthy foods in their diet and avoid foods that are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.