Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with countless changes and preparations. While it’s an exciting time, it’s also one of the most important times to prioritise your health and the health of your growing baby.
When discussing pregnancy, one nutrient often overlooked is Vitamin D āļø.
Why Vitamin D Matters
Did you know that pregnant women deficient in vitamin D were found to be 1.87 times more likely to develop gestational diabetes compared to those with adequate levels? This eye-opening statistic was revealed in a meta-analysis published just this year. In fact, a similar conclusion was drawn from a systematic review conducted in 2017. And when I say adequate levels – levels only had to be over 50 nmol/l to make a difference!
As of 2021/2022, the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has been staggering, with 1 in 6 women being diagnosed. These numbers emphasise the importance of optimising vitamin D levels as a simple yet effective strategy to reduce some of the the risk of developing GDM during pregnancy. It is also important to note that in Australia the testing criteria for diagnosis of GDM has become a LOT stricter – which could be a reason for the rapid increase in the number of women diagnosed now!
A Personal Perspective
For those of us dedicated to guiding you through a healthier pregnancy, the significance of Vitamin D is not lost. This nutrient takes center stage in our approach, and for good reason. As someone who has personally experienced GDM during pregnancy and, interestingly enough, was also found to be vitamin D deficient, I understand the importance of this essential vitamin firsthand. It is something that I am optimising for my next pregnancy to reduce some of my risk of getting GDM again. But also remembering that a number of risk factors for developing GDM are out of our control.
Taking the First Step
If you are planning pregnancy or already pregnant, it is important to chat to your doctor or health care team about getting a blood test to check your Vitamin D levels. The sooner you are able to correct the deficiency the better.
We now spend more time inside that ever before, so make a little plan for your week ahead to spend 10 minutes in the morning sun to get some Vitamin D on your skin. Being in the morning sun in Spring time is beautiful as it is not too hot yet.
Food sources of vitamin D only contribute 10% to our overall needs – but includes Egg yolk, oily fish, beef & beef liver and mushrooms that have been exposed to UV rays (sunlight).
Ready to Optimise Your Pregnancy Journey? Let’s Work Together!
Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative experience, but it’s not without its challenges. From ensuring your baby’s well-being to taking care of your own health, there’s a lot to consider. As you can see from this blog post explaining just one of the benefits of optimising a certain nutrient.
If you’re eager to embrace a healthier, happier pregnancy and want expert guidance along the way, I’m here for you. As someone who has personally navigated the challenges of gestational diabetes and vitamin D deficiency, I bring both professional expertise and a deep understanding of your journey.
By working together, we can:
- Optimise Your Vitamin D Levels: We’ll advocate for blood tests if they haven’t already been done and then develop a personalised plan to ensure your vitamin D levels are where they should be, reducing some of the risk of developing gestational diabetes.
- Navigate Pregnancy Challenges: I’ll provide you with valuable insights, strategies, and support to address any other concerns you may have during your pregnancy.
- Create a Healthier Future: Your health during pregnancy sets the stage for your baby’s future. Together, we can lay a strong foundation for a lifetime of well-being.
- Enjoy a Stress-Free Pregnancy: Pregnancy can be a rollercoaster of emotions. I’m here to guide you through the ups and downs, making your journey as stress-free as possible.
Don’t let uncertainty or the fear of complications overshadow this remarkable time in your life. Take the first step toward a healthier pregnancy by reaching out to me today. Let’s start a conversation and explore how we can work together to make your journey into motherhood nourished, confident, and joyful.
Contact me today by heading to the ‘Contact’ tab of my website or book in a free chat today. Together, we’ll start a journey that prioritises your well-being and ensures the best start for your baby. Your pregnancy deserves the best care, and I’m here to support you the whole way.
Let’s make this journey an unforgettable one! šš¶
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