Potatoes have been a dietary staple for generations. They are a versatile food that can be prepared in a variety of ways, from mashed to baked to fried.

However, recent studies suggest that potato consumption during pregnancy may increase the risk of gestational diabetes. In this article, we will explore the link between potato consumption and pregnancy diabetes.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels and affects around 10% of pregnant women.

Gestational diabetes can cause complications for both the mother and the baby, including a higher risk of pre-eclampsia, premature birth, and macrosomia (a large baby).

The Link Between Potato Consumption and Gestational Diabetes

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition examined the link between potato consumption and gestational diabetes.

The study found that women who consumed more potatoes – including boiled, mashed, and baked potatoes, as well as french fries – had a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes.

The study looked at data from over 15,000 women who were part of the Nurses’ Health Study II. The women were followed from 1991 to 2001, and their diets were assessed every four years.

During the study, 854 cases of gestational diabetes were identified.

The study found that women who consumed more than five servings of potatoes per week had a 50% increased risk of developing gestational diabetes, compared to women who consumed less than one serving per week.

The risk was particularly high for women who consumed fried potatoes, such as french fries or potato chips. These women had a 70% increased risk of gestational diabetes.

Why Does Potato Consumption Increase the Risk of Gestational Diabetes?

There are several reasons why potato consumption may increase the risk of gestational diabetes. One reason is that potatoes have a high glycemic index, which means that they can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels.

This can put a strain on the pancreas, which produces insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Over time, this strain can lead to insulin resistance and gestational diabetes.

Another reason is that potatoes are high in carbohydrates. During pregnancy, the body becomes less efficient at processing carbohydrates, which can lead to high blood sugar levels.

Consuming large amounts of carbohydrates, including potatoes, can exacerbate this issue and increase the risk of gestational diabetes.

What Can Pregnant Women Do to Reduce their Risk of Gestational Diabetes?

While it is important to limit potato consumption during pregnancy, there are other steps that pregnant women can take to reduce their risk of gestational diabetes.

One of the most important steps is to maintain a healthy weight. Women who are overweight or obese before pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes.

Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help women maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of gestational diabetes.

Exercise is also important for reducing the risk of gestational diabetes. Regular exercise can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent insulin resistance.

Pregnant women should aim to engage in moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes per day, most days of the week.

The Bottom Line

Potato consumption during pregnancy may increase the risk of gestational diabetes. Pregnant women should aim to limit their consumption of potatoes, particularly fried potatoes such as french fries and potato chips.

Instead, they should focus on consuming a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and engage in regular exercise to reduce their risk of gestational diabetes.