Diabetes or diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood stream. High sugar levels in the blood are caused by the inability of the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin-type 1 diabetes or the inability of the body to make proper use of the produced insulin-type 2 diabetes. Various studies and forms of research carried out have proven that the number of women, who are diagnosed to be diabetic before a pregnancy, has doubled. In earlier times as well, there were a number of women who were known to be diabetic, but in the recent past, one of the main causes of diabetes before a pregnancy has been obesity and weight gain. In addition, lack of exercise, stress, hypertension, high cholesterol and unhealthy eating habits are other factors that contribute to the increase in diabetes in young women.
During a pregnancy, the blood tends to absorb more glucose from the food eaten and the pancreas is unable to produce sufficient amounts of insulin. This results in a further increase in blood sugar levels. In addition, increase in maternal weight during a pregnancy is inevitable and this increases the risks of related complications further. As the child develops within the womb, the mother is careful not to undertake any strenuous form of exercise that could endanger the good health of the child that she is carrying. Restricted movement and exercise also lead to an increase in weight because all the calories that are provided by the nutritious food are not utilized. They are stored as fat in the body and cause further weight gain. Diabetes during pregnancy increases the chances of early miscarriages, preterm births, still births, congenital defects and babies with large birth weight.
Keeping in mind the fact that pre-pregnancy diabetes rates are increasing, it is important for all women to keep an eye on their lifestyle. This can be done by keeping a check on the regular diet and avoiding all fatty and deep fried foods. Similarly, foods that are excessively sweet should also be avoided. The consumption of fruits and vegetables is recommended as they are easier to digest and provide the body with complete nutrition. Exercise plays an important role in keeping weight gain under control, and a brisk walk or swim everyday will work wonders. The consumption of water at regular intervals is also known to help increase metabolism in the body, thereby breaking down fat cells that have been stored.