Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes occurring only during pregnancy. Though this condition is harmless for you, this type of diabetes can have negative effects on your unborn child. According to MayoClinic.com, gestational diabetes can be managed by exercising, eating healthy and taking medications if necessary. Speak with a qualified physician before you make any changes to your diet.
Identification
Gestational diabetes generally develops halfway through pregnancy and is the result of hormone changes due to pregnancy according to Life Clinic. This type of diabetes differs from Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. With gestational diabetes, the placenta may develop an insulin resistance. Life Clinic states that the pancreas is usually able to manufacture additional insulin; however, there is still not enough to overcome the hormones produced by the placenta.
Screening
Sometime between your 24th and 28th week of pregnancy, your doctor will screen you for gestational diabetes. According to WomenFitness.net, your doctor will have you consume a solution that contains 50 g of glucose. An hour later, your blood is drawn to check the levels of glucose in your blood. Anything lower than 140 mg is considered to be normal. If your levels are over 140 mg, further testing will be ordered.
Symptoms
Symptoms of gestational diabetes may vary from person to person. This condition may lead to symptoms of fatigue, nausea, increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss and vomiting. In addition, gestational diabetes may lead to blurred vision as well as frequent infections.
Foods to Avoid
Sugary foods and snacks, such as potato chips, candy bars and other snacks, should be avoided if you have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. According to the AAFP, try to avoid eating fast foods as they contain little nutritional content and are usually high in fats. In addition, drinks containing high sugar content, such as sodas, should be avoided.
Recommendations
Controlling your blood sugar levels during pregnancy is important for the health of your baby. The Life Clinic recommends a diet rich in vegetables, beans, cereal as well as foods that are high in dietary fiber content. Gestational diabetes varies from woman to woman as do her dietary needs. Upon being diagnosed with this condition, your doctor will assist you in laying the foundation for a healthy diet.
Considerations
The majority of women suffering from gestational diabetes usually give birth to healthy babies; however, this condition can put your baby at risk of excessive growth, jaundice, development of Type 2 diabetes later in life and low blood sugar. Frequent monitoring of you glucose levels may help you and your doctor take preventative measures.
