Researchers released new guidelines for identifying gestational diabetes and the findings suggest that many more women may be at risk than previously thought, according to a recent article from the LA Times. Women with gestational diabetes produce insulin, the hormone that regulates the amount of sugar in the blood, but the body doesn’t use it efficiently, causing potential spikes in blood sugar levels. Now, researchers say that even more moderate elevations in blood sugar may pose a risk for pregnant women.
Fasting blood sugar level of at least 92, a one-hour blood sugar reading of at least 180, and a two-hour level of at least 153 were believed to be within a typical range. The study of more than 23,000 women in nine countries found that is no longer the case. If doctors adopt these new guidelines, many more women will be diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
