Does breastfeeding raise blood sugar?

The Relationship Between Breastfeeding and Blood Sugar Levels
Breastfeeding is often heralded for its myriad benefits, not just for infants but also for mothers, particularly those with a history of diabetes. The question of whether breastfeeding raises blood sugar levels is nuanced, as it involves understanding the physiological changes that occur during lactation.
Breastfeeding and Blood Sugar Regulation
Research indicates that breastfeeding can actually help regulate blood sugar levels rather than raise them. For mothers who have experienced gestational diabetes, breastfeeding may play a crucial role in improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. This is particularly significant because around 9% of women develop insulin resistance during pregnancy, leading to gestational diabetes.
When a mother breastfeeds, her body utilizes glucose from the bloodstream to produce milk. This process can lead to a temporary decrease in blood sugar levels, which may be beneficial for managing diabetes. In fact, many mothers find that their insulin requirements decrease while they are breastfeeding, as the body adapts to the demands of lactation.
Long-Term Benefits for Diabetic Mothers
The long-term implications of breastfeeding extend beyond immediate blood sugar management. Studies have shown that breastfeeding for longer durations can significantly lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. For instance, women who breastfeed for more than two months can reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes by nearly 50%, with even greater reductions observed for those who breastfeed beyond five months. This suggests that the act of breastfeeding not only aids in immediate postpartum recovery but also contributes to long-term metabolic health.
Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels
While breastfeeding can have positive effects on blood sugar regulation, it is essential for mothers, especially those with diabetes, to monitor their blood glucose levels closely. The hormonal changes and energy demands associated with lactation can make blood sugar levels somewhat unpredictable. Therefore, healthcare providers often recommend that mothers adjust their diabetes management plans during this period, which may include changes in medication dosages.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding does not raise blood sugar levels; rather, it can help lower them and improve insulin sensitivity. For mothers with a history of gestational diabetes, the benefits of breastfeeding extend into long-term health, significantly reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, careful monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial to ensure optimal health for both mother and child during this important phase.

Is blood sugar higher breastfeeding?

Thus, breastfeeding women exhibit lower blood glucose and insulin concentrations compared with non-breastfeeding women. “We hypothesize that the diversion of glucose and lipids for milk production may unload the pancreatic beta cells and preserve long-term insulin production in women,” said Gunderson.

Is blood sugar higher when breastfeeding?

Thus, breastfeeding women exhibit lower blood glucose and insulin concentrations compared with non-breastfeeding women. “We hypothesize that the diversion of glucose and lipids for milk production may unload the pancreatic beta cells and preserve long-term insulin production in women,” said Gunderson.

What is the normal sugar level for breastfeeding mothers?

Experts recommend keeping your glucose levels somewhere between 90 and 180 mg/dL while breastfeeding. Any lower glucose levels may lead to dangerous hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Some people may discover that their blood sugars drop between 54 and 90 mg/dL during a breastfeeding session.

Does breastfeeding affect blood count?

On average, red blood cell DHA levels did not change while breast milk DHA levels increased significantly. Red blood cell and breast milk DHA levels above the median at baseline (5% and 0.19%, respectively) did not change while those below the median significantly increased.

Can sugar be passed through breast milk?

From mother to baby: ‘Secondhand sugars’ can pass through breast milk. A new USC study shows that even a small amount of fructose in breast milk is associated with increases in a baby’s body weight.

Why is my blood sugar high after delivery?

Postpartum gestational diabetes
These hormones affect how the body uses insulin. In some people, this can lead to insulin resistance, where the body cannot use insulin effectively. In the late stages of pregnancy, there is a significant increase in insulin resistance, which can lead to gestational diabetes.

Does drinking water lower blood sugar?

Drink water
One 2021 review of observational studies found that people who drank more water had a lower risk of developing high blood sugar levels. Drinking water regularly may rehydrate the blood, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce diabetes risk.

Does breastfeeding impact bloodwork?

Lactating compared with nonlactating women display more favorable metabolic parameters, including less atherogenic blood lipids, lower fasting and postprandial blood glucose as well as insulin, and greater insulin sensitivity in the first 4 months postpartum.

What happens if I eat too much sugar while breastfeeding?

If the mother consumes a diet low in diverse nutrients but high in processed foods or sugars, the infant is highly likely to develop childhood obesity or even type 2 diabetes.

Does breastfeeding spike blood sugar?

Thus, breastfeeding women exhibit lower blood glucose and insulin concentrations compared with non-breastfeeding women. “We hypothesize that the diversion of glucose and lipids for milk production may unload the pancreatic beta cells and preserve long-term insulin production in women,” said Gunderson.