What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It occurs when the hormones produced by the placenta during pregnancy make it difficult for the body to effectively use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Gestational diabetes typically resolves after giving birth, but it requires careful management during pregnancy to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby. 

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Cause of Gestational Diabetes 

The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development. These include: 

• Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, the placenta produces hormones that can interfere with insulin's ability to regulate blood sugar. This hormone imbalance leads to insulin resistance, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. 
  

• Insufficient Insulin Production: Some women may not produce enough insulin during pregnancy to meet the increased demand, leading to gestational diabetes. 
  

• Pre-existing Risk Factors: Certain factors increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes, such as being overweight or obese before pregnancy, having a family history of diabetes, and previous gestational diabetes.
  

• Health Implications Gestational diabetes can have health implications for both the mother and the baby.
  

If not properly managed, it can lead to complications such as: 

• High Birth Weight: Babies of mothers with gestational diabetes may grow larger than average, increasing the risk of difficulties during delivery, such as shoulder dystocia. 
  

• Low Blood Sugar in the Baby: After birth, the baby may experience low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) due to the excess insulin produced in response to the mother's high blood sugar levels. 
  

• Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Women who have had gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. It is crucial to adopt healthy lifestyle habits after pregnancy to reduce this risk. 
  

• Symptoms of Gestational Diabetes Gestational diabetes often does not cause noticeable symptoms, which is why screening tests are routinely performed during pregnancy to diagnose the condition.

However, in some cases, women with gestational diabetes may experience the following symptoms: 

• Increased thirst 

• Frequent urination Fatigue 

• Increased hunger Blurred vision
  

Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes 

Initial Screening: Between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy, women are usually recommended to undergo an initial screening test known as the glucose challenge test (GCT). During this test, you will be given a sweet drink containing a specific amount of glucose. After consuming the drink, your blood sugar level will be measured after one hour. This test does not require fasting beforehand. 

Follow-Up Diagnostic Test: If the results of the GCT indicate higher blood sugar levels than normal, your healthcare provider will likely recommend a follow-up diagnostic test called the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The OGTT provides a more accurate diagnosis of gestational diabetes. 

Living with Gestational Diabetes and Treatment 

Managing gestational diabetes involves adopting a balanced and nutritious diet. The following tips can help control blood sugar levels: 

Choose Complex Carbohydrates: Opt for whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, and whole grain pasta. These provide fiber and release sugar into the bloodstream more slowly, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels. Include Lean Proteins: Incorporate lean protein sources like chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes into your meals. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar levels and promotes healthy growth and development in the baby. 

Eat Plenty of Vegetables and Fruits: Vegetables and fruits are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber - try to prioritize vegetables as they tend to have less sugar than most fruits. Aim to include a variety of colorful options in your diet to ensure a range of nutrients. 

Limit Added Sugars and Sweets: Minimize or avoid sugary foods, desserts, and sweetened beverages. These can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

For more information, click below:

• eBook:  The ultimate guide to type 2 diabetes

• eBook:  The ultimate guide to gestational diabetes

• Online Program:  Nutrition and lifestyle change for prediabetes
  

The ultimate guide to type 2 diabetes: 

The ultimate guide to gestational diabetes:

Nutrition and lifestyle change for prediabetes