Pregnancy brings with it many wonderful and joyous things, but it also brings with it many new and exciting, but uncomfortable, hormonal changes and metabolic changes that impact how blood sugar is controlled. One of these changes is called gestational diabetes, which requires a need for close and careful attention. It While it is a temporary condition, it is of great importance.
World Health Organization (WHO) states that worldwide, 10–14% of pregnancies are affected by gestational diabetes mellitus, and that number is increasing by the day, particularly in developing countries such as India, due rapid changes in eating and exercise habits. If the signs of gestational diabetes are recognized early, it helps to prevent complications for both the mother and baby.
GDM is diagnosed when blood sugar levels rise in pregnancy due to the body being unable to keep up with the increased demand for insulin. Deficiency of insulin, the hormone responsible for helping cells use sugar (glucose) in the blood for energy, is the fundamental problem. If there is little or no insulin present to remove the glucose from the blood, the result is high blood sugar.
The positive aspect about gestational diabetes is that it usually goes away after you give birth. However, it is possible for women who have GDM to end up with type 2 diabetes later in life. This gives primacy to the need for early detection, proper management, and preventive care. This gives you the power to take the issue into your own hands.
The factors that cause GDM are usually hormonal and other issues tied to a woman’s life. During a woman’s pregnancy, there are certain hormonal changes that the body goes through that makes some of the body’s enzymes less effective, causing insulin resistance. To regain some of that lost function, the body’s pancreas goes through some additional activity, but in some cases, not quite enough.
There are a number of other risk factors, including:
These factors help mothers to be understand what type of lifestyle changes and health checkup regimens they should observe.
Remember that for the majority of women, there is no noticeable sign that gestational diabetes is developing; that is why screening is critical for the majority of women developing gestational diabetes. You are not alone. That said, there are a few early warning signs to lookout for:
Your doctor can guide you on the signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes. It can be highly beneficial to have a sugar test done early on to screen for any potential issues in order to avoid any unnecessary complications down the road.
To diagnose a woman with gestational diabetes mellitus, a medical professional will suggest performing a glucose tolerance test (GTT) which is usually between 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy.
This includes:
Here are the normal blood sugar levels:
Your health care professional will help you create a customized treatment plan if you go above the levels listed above. You can look at the guidelines for gestational diabetes in Mayo Clinic for further information.
You can control gestational diabetes while pregnant without having to take medication. Most women can achieve healthy blood sugar levels with a well-balanced nutritious meal, healthy lifestyle, and consistent blood sugar monitoring, this allows you to take control and manage this condition effectively.
These are good steps to take to manage blood sugar levels during pregnancy:
When you follow the healthy diet for gestational diabetes, you are not just regulating your blood sugar, but are also providing nutrients for the baby’s growth, thus nurturing the baby in the best way possible.
Focus on:
Try to avoid white rice, sweets, sugary drinks, and refined carbs. These foods can lead to spikes and drops in blood sugar levels to the dangerous levels for you and your baby. For more details on pregnancy safe foods, check out the last post on 10 Guidelines for Health Pregnancy Diet.
Maintain your Gut Health
Recent studies show that gut health has a large influence on blood sugar. A well-diversified gut microbiome has good insulin sensitivity and low inflammation. Add more fiber, curd and kefir, and fermented foods like idlis, dosas, and kimchi to your daily meals.
Engaging in light activities, like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, makes insulin work better and helps with managing weight gain.
As per your doctor, check your blood sugar. This will give you feedback on how effective your lifestyle and dietary changes are.
For first-time mothers, managing gestational diabetes can feel daunting. The best dietitian can support you in developing a practical and culturally appropriate diet that aligns with your sugar management needs.
If not controlled, gestational diabetes can lead to an increased chance of:
These risks are manageable with timely action. According to NHS, most women with gestational diabetes go on to have healthy pregnancies if they take a proactive approach to managing their condition.
While it is true that the gestational diabetes that occur during pregnancy tend to go away after the woman has given birth, the long-term implications and the importance of prevention are still important.
New moms can stay post-pregnancy healthy by:
Consistency with these habits is pivotal for avoiding type 2 diabetes, especially for women who've had gestational diabetes, as they are at a greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes. These habits are also pivotal for enhancing one's metabolic and gut health.
While diagnoses of gestational diabetes may feel alarming, it can be well contained, utilizing the tools of early and timely interventions, conscious efforts, and lifestyle modifications. Additionally, seeking interventions early can help protect your health and improve the prospects of your pregnancy. Strategically eating and exercising, along with regular blood sugar monitoring, helps ensure a healthy pregnancy.
If you're pregnant and suspect you may have gestational diabetes, do not ignore these concerns. Work with your physician and establish a healthy gestational diabetes diet that supports your health and that of your growing baby. For further information, the CDC and the WHO provide details on These Diabetes and Pregnancy - Diabetes and Pregnancy.
Nutritionist and Dietician, Ruhi Rajput is a renown name, championing the integration of nutrition, lifestyle, and mindfulness She has over a decade of valuable experience, empowering health and nutrition through holistic approach.
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