Gestational�Diabetes During Pregnancy

(March 31, 2011)

Gestational diabetes during pregnancy is a common pregnancy complication. The term refers to an increase in the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood stream during the course of pregnancy. This form of diabetes springs up during the pregnancy term, especially during the last trimester and usually ceases soon after delivery. In this case, the pancreas becomes sluggish and finds it difficult to produce insulin sufficient for metabolizing the glucose obtained from various foods. In some cases, the body may not respond properly to the insulin produced. This causes an increase in the level of glucose in the blood stream and the person is said to have high blood sugar.

Symptoms of gestational diabetes during pregnancy primarily include increased thirst and an increase in the frequency to urinate. Bladder and urinary tract infections may also be indicative signs of gestational diabetes during pregnancy. In addition, many women with gestational diabetes are also known to get exhausted easily and nausea and vomiting may become frequent occurrences. Even if an expectant mother does not face any of these symptoms, testing for gestational diabetes during pregnancy is performed as part of a routine medical examination, mainly in the third trimester of pregnancy. Usually, blood is tested for checking blood sugar levels. Blood is extracted after a 12 hour period of fasting and then two hours after consuming some breakfast. This helps to give an idea of the body’s ability to metabolize sugar. A glucose tolerance test may also be performed with repeated intake of a glass of glucose water, taken at regular predefined intervals. After each glass of glucose water, blood is extracted for testing.

The diet for gestational diabetes during pregnancy must include plenty of vegetables as well as fruit. Salads and leafy vegetables are an ideal meal choice as they are low in sugar content and high in fiber. The diet plan for gestational diabetes during pregnancy must also include dietary options like whole grain breads, bran cereal and sprouts. Sweets, jams, jellies and deserts must be avoided as they increase the risk of elevated blood sugar levels. Instead of three large meals, opting for around five to six small meals through the day is recommended as this gives the body time to metabolize food more efficiently. Skipping meals or strict weight control diet plans must be shunned completely as weight gain and a change in body structure is a natural part of pregnancy. Stress should be avoided. Regular physical exercise in the form of non-strenuous activities like walking and swimming are good ways of controlling unnecessary weight gain.

Submitted by N on March 31, 2011 at 07:31

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