How Breastfeeding affects Gestational Diabetes

Source: The Indian Express

Gestational diabetes is a growing challenge in India, and the number seems to be increasing. Women with diabetes should be encouraged to breastfeed their little bundles of joy, as breastfeeding may help lower blood glucose levels.

Breastfeeding is the natural way to care for a baby while creating a bond between a mother and her child. Further, breastfeeding reduces the chances of developing many health conditions for women such as Osteoporosis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Heart disease etc.

Breastfeeding with diabetes can be challenging. Women with diabetes are more likely to develop inflammation in their breasts; a condition called mastitis. Women with diabetes should ensure to feed their babies from both their breasts to avoid developing inflammation of breasts.

Also, women with diabetes must keep a regular check on their blood sugar levels. Increased blood sugar can affect milk quality. Apart from milk quality, it may sometimes affect the ability to produce milk, too.

Breastfeeding reduces blood glucose levels by:

• Utilizing glucose from the blood to produce breast milk
• By burning down extra calories, which increase insulin sensitivity.

Women with diabetes can incorporate the following tips to ease their breastfeeding experience:

• Having a snack before or while breastfeeding.
• Monitoring blood sugar levels at least once a day before and after feeding their baby
• Keeping an emergency snack, such as a biscuit or a fruit, nearby while they feed their baby.
• Checking for any inflammation in the breast.
• Avoiding any stress.
• Drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Also read: Why Breastfeeding Moms should eat Citrus Fruits