A nurse is providing discharge education to a pregnant woman who has gestational diabetes and delivered a healthy baby.

The nurse should inform the woman that she has an increased risk of developing which of the following conditions in the future?

The correct answer is choice A. Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day.

This can help prevent symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) by keeping the blood sugar level more stable and avoiding spikes and dips.Eating smaller meals can also help prevent overeating and weight gain, which can worsen insulin resistance and gestational diabetes.

Choice B is wrong because foods that are high in fiber and low in fat can actually help control blood sugar levels by slowing down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates.Fiber can also help lower cholesterol levels and prevent constipation.

Choice C is wrong because simple carbohydrates and sugars can raise blood sugar levels quickly and cause hyperglycemia.Women with gestational diabetes should limit their intake of these foods and choose complex carbohydrates that are rich in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Choice D is wrong because skipping breakfast can lead to low blood sugar levels in the morning and high blood sugar levels later in the day.

It can also increase hunger and cravings, which can result in overeating at lunch and dinner.Women with gestational diabetes should eat a balanced breakfast that includes protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

The correct answer is choice D. Previous history of gestational diabetes.This is because having gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy increases the risk of developing it again in a subsequent pregnancy.According to the CDC, about 50% of women with gestational diabetes go on to develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

Choice A is wrong because advanced maternal age is not a primary risk factor for gestational diabetes, although it may increase the risk slightly.

Choice B is wrong because family history of diabetes is not a primary risk factor for gestational diabetes, although it may indicate a genetic predisposition to insulin resistance.

Choice C is wrong because smoking during pregnancy is not a primary risk factor for gestational diabetes, although it may have other adverse effects on the mother and the baby.

Some of the other risk factors for gestational diabetes include obesity, hormonal changes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and pregnancy over 30 years of age.Gestational diabetes can cause complications such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, large birth weight, premature delivery, respiratory distress syndrome, and low blood sugar in the baby.Gestational diabetes can be managed with a healthy diet, exercise, and medication if needed.