Can a woman with gestational diabetes drink honey water near term?

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a relatively common gynecological condition during pregnancy. In most cases, it is a transient disorder caused by hormonal imbalances during pregnancy. Some pregnant women with gestational diabetes wonder whether they may drink honey water as delivery approaches. So, can women with gestational diabetes consume honey water near term?

Can women with gestational diabetes drink honey water near term?

Women with gestational diabetes in the late stages of pregnancy should not drink honey water. Gestational diabetes—also referred to as gestational diabetes mellitus—is characterized by abnormal glucose metabolism and insufficient insulin secretion during pregnancy. As such, affected individuals must avoid foods high in sugar and sweets—including honey water. GDM is a transient metabolic disorder; with appropriate dietary control and lifestyle adjustments, most women recover spontaneously after delivery.

Gestational diabetes refers to hyperglycemia first detected or diagnosed during pregnancy, resulting from varying degrees of glucose intolerance—including diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and impaired fasting glucose (IFG). Some women are diagnosed with diabetes or IGT prior to pregnancy and experience persistent or worsening disease during gestation. Research indicates that major risk factors for GDM include advanced maternal age, obesity, ethnicity, adverse obstetric history, and a family history of diabetes. Disease severity generally correlates with the degree of glucose intolerance, and many women experience spontaneous normalization of glucose tolerance shortly after delivery, leading to full recovery.

Any health concerns arising during pregnancy warrant prompt medical evaluation and management, as untreated complications may adversely affect fetal development. We hope this article has been helpful to you!