Gestational diabetes is usually diagnosed in the second trimester of pregnancy and occurs in 1 to 3 percent of all pregnancies, according to Family Doctor. If you've been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, your doctor will probably recommend that you make changes to your diet and lifestyle in order to alleviate symptoms. Gestational diabetes usually goes away after labor and delivery.
General Information
Gestational diabetes only occurs during pregnancy. According to Bigitta Gallo's "Expecting Fitness," 50 percent of gestational diabetics will become diabetic within 15 years of their pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes have high blood sugar. The condition can increase the chances of developing preeclampsia, and many women who have gestational diabetes give birth to large babies. Gestational diabetes may also cause low blood sugar in your baby or increase the chances of your baby developing jaundice.
Eating Habits
Women with gestational diabetes need to monitor their diet carefully. Diabetes interferes with the release of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This causes high blood sugar. To avoid spikes in blood sugar levels, you should eat three small or medium-sized meals each day, as well as two to four snacks in between meals. Be sure to eat breakfast, since blood sugar levels tend to be most sensitive in the morning. However, avoid eating sugary foods and carbohydrates in the morning, and opt for protein sources like eggs, as well as high-fiber foods like whole-wheat toast.
Food Choices
Whole-grain breads and carbohydrates are better than enriched white flour products, since they are slowly absorbed and broken down by the body. Avoid high-sugar foods, like soda, fruit juice, flavored water and desserts. You should also avoid foods that are high in saturated fat. Julie Redfern of BabyCenter.com recommends discussing your diet concerns with a registered dietitian, who will be able to make personal recommendations based on your body type and food preferences.
Exercise
Exercise also helps regulate blood sugar levels, so your doctor will probably recommend that you get some form of exercise every day if you have gestational diabetes. As noted by Family Doctor, walking is an ideal exercise for pregnancy, particularly if you aren't accustomed to exercising every day. Discuss types of exercise with your doctor, and avoid over-exerting yourself. Start slowly if you aren't used to exercise, with 10 minutes of moderate- or low-intensity aerobic workout, and increase to 30 minutes each day.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: Gestational Diabetes: What it Means for Me and My Baby
- "Expecting Fitness": Birgitta Gallo; 2000
- American Family Physician: "Management of Gestional Diabetes Mellitus"; David K. Turok, et al.; November 2003
- BabyCenter.com; What Type of Pregnancy Diet Should I Follow if I Have Gestational Diabetes?; Julie Redfern
- MedlinePlus: Diabetes Diet-Gestational
